In Murcia on 29 September 2026 the 11th International Table Grape Symposium table grapes began. The conference has been running since 28 September and lasts until 2 October 2026. According to the organisers, the event brings together more than 600 industry professionals, most of whom are travelling from abroad. The event is organised by industry associations including APOEXPA, and sessions are being held, among other venues, at the Hotel Nelva in the city of Murcia. Internationally, the event is known as the International Table Grape Symposium (ITGS).
At the opening, the president of the Region, Fernando López Miras, emphasised the importance of the Region Murcia for table grape production in Spain and on international markets. He cited advances in irrigation, close collaboration between the Instituto Murciano de Investigación y Desarrollo Agrario (IMIDA) and private breeding programmes, as well as the rapid spread of new seedless varieties, as key drivers. According to industry figures, the Region specialises heavily in seedless table grapes and accounts for a large share of Spain’s growing areas. The regional government points to innovation, research and water management as key factors in competitiveness.
The ITGS programme combines scientific presentations with market-focused sessions. Topics include variety development and protection, plant protection and phytosanitary requirements, post-harvest processes, marketing strategies and adaptation to climate change. The subjects cover the entire value chain – from the field to packing houses, logistics and exports. Variety protection includes safeguarding breeding rights and licensing models for new seedless varieties; plant health concerns the prevention, monitoring and control of pests and diseases that are crucial to export-oriented supply chains. Post-harvest handling and packaging aim to preserve quality and ensure traceability, a focus that the organisers highlight alongside precision irrigation and sustainable materials.
The organisers expect an immediate boost to the city of Murcia through increased revenue from accommodation and services during the conference. In the medium to long term, regional businesses and research institutions are looking to strengthen cooperation and technology transfer with international partners, for example in precision irrigation, sustainable packaging and traceable supply chains. Their aims include securing the competitiveness of regional producers and opening up new markets. Figures for attendance, where visitors come from and economic effects are based on statements by the organisers and the regional press.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).