Analysis of the importance of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cultivation in the European Union and Romania: economic, technological and pedoclimatic implications

Abstract

Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) is one of the most valuable horticultural crops worldwide, due to its significant economic and nutritional contribution. This paper analyzes the importance of strawberry cultivation in the European Union and Romania, by evaluating the cultivated area, production, geographical distribution and socio-economic impact. The study combines statistical analysis of official data (Eurostat, 2023; INS, 2023) with a review of the specialized literature (Anttonen et al., 2006; Voca et al., 2008; Maltoni et al., 2009), targeting both the productive dimension and the quality of the fruit and technological adaptation. The results show that the main producing countries in the EU are Poland, Spain, Italy and Germany, due to favorable climatic conditions and the use of modern cultivation technologies. In Romania, strawberry cultivation occupies an area of ​​about 6,000 ha, concentrated in the counties of Argeș, Prahova and Dâmbovița, with a production of approximately 20,000 tons annually (Eurostat, 2022; INS, 2023). The average production, of 6,795 kg/ha, is below the European average, being influenced by pedoclimatic factors, lack of investment and deficient agricultural infrastructure. The SWOT analysis highlighted strengths such as the diversity of varieties, local tradition and pedoclimatic potential, but also limitations related to climate volatility and the high costs of modern technologies. The conclusions highlight the need to adopt sustainable practices, modernize production infrastructure and strengthen short supply chains. Strawberry cultivation can become a strategic vector of rural economic development, with long-term benefits for the Romanian agricultural economy.