USDA: US avocado production increased 53% in volume in 2024

(Agraria.pe) According to the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) 2024 Non-Citrus Fruit and Nut Crop Report, 2024 closed with mixed results for U.S. specialty crops, with some commodities achieving higher yields and values, while others saw declines due to acreage reductions, inclement weather, or market fluctuations. Fruit Production Highlights: Apple production in 2024 reached 4.763 billion kilos, down 5% from 2023. Although yield per hectare decreased, the total crop value increased 2% to US$2.9 billion, thanks in part to higher average prices. Avocado production grew 53% to 195,850 tons, with a significant 115% increase in value to US$537 million, largely due to improved yields. Apricot production, on the other hand, registered a -10% drop to 32,330 tons and a -5% decrease in value to US$46.6 million. Blueberries performed well. Cultivated varieties grew 23% in volume, reaching 358 million kilos, valued at US$1.15 billion, while wild Maine blueberries grew 11% ...