Loquat was one of the most important species in the European Project RESGEN-CT95-029 (1996-99), to study the genetic resources of minor fruit trees in Mediterranean countries. The conservation and characterization of loquat genetic resources and the most common cultivars and rootstocks in these countries are reported. Some of the most interesting cultivars from the 'Instituto Valenciano de Investigaciones Agrarias' collection are also described. The main problems of loquat plant material in the Mediterranean basin are: (i) loss of genetic diversity (local cultivars were lost that did not meet the market requirements); and (ii) the crop relies on a unique or a few cultivars. To solve these problems, it is necessary to carry out two complementary research projects: to keep working on collection, conservation and characterization of genetic resources; and to start loquat breeding programmes aimed at obtaining new cultivars that could extend the range of cultivars available adapted to the market demands.