Colombian Tahiti Lemons Exports Increase by 89.1% So Far in 2022

Published 2022년 7월 29일

Colombia has increased its export volume by 89.1% YoY during Jan-May 2022 compared to 2021, due to growing global demand. The expansion of the production area, the ideal conditions for production, and the year-round supply made it possible for Colombia to position itself as a world-leading producer of Tahiti lemons.

Colombia has over 90K hectares dedicated to citrus production, of which 20% is allocated to the production of Tahiti lemons. Tahiti lemon production is located all around the country, from sea level altitudes up to 1,800m above sea level. On top of this, Colombia holds average temperatures between 18 and 30 ºC, making the weather ideal for the production of juicy and high in acidity Tahiti lemons. Tahiti lemons are primarily produced in Atlántico, Nariño, Santander, Tolima y Valle del Cauca. Areas with a lower production concentration but with high expansion potential are Antioquia, Risaralda, Caldas, and Cundinamarca.

Tahiti lemons became the third most exported fruits from Colombia, following Banana and Hass Avocado, due to an increase in production area and supply. In 2021, the export value of Tahiti lemons reached USD 49.32M. From January to May 2022, the Tahiti lemon exports reached USD 44.58M, representing an 89.1% increase from the same period in 2021, when exports reached USD 23.58M. If weather and supply remain stable, Tahiti lemon exports will maintain a similar export trend to the one reported in 2022.

Source: SICEX

Colombian Tahiti lemon producers have achieved this export surge due to an expansion in the production area, the high fruit quality, and the export certifications obtained. Additionally, unlike Brazil or Mexico, strong Tahiti lemon exporters in Latin America, Colombia offers supply year-round, which is attractive to importers. Colombia exports Tahiti lemons mainly to the United States and the European Union for the price of Colombia.