W31: Lemon and Lime Update

In W31 in the lemon and lime landscape, Tahiti lime prices have increased sharply, especially during W31 in Brazil, both in the local market and for export. The availability of this lime variety continues to decrease, and this decline has been more significant recently. In W31, the average price for Tahiti lime was USD 12.83/27kg (BRL 63.18/27kg) at harvest in the domestic market. This reflects a significant increase of 45.68% month-on-month (MoM). There have even been reports of sales reaching USD 20.31/27kg (BRL 100/27kg). The prices for this variety will likely remain stable in Aug-23, as there's no immediate projection for an increase in supply.

The lemon supply is now more balanced compared to previous years, with Seald Sweet LLC pulling lemons from Argentina and Chile. Despite initial predictions of a 30% decrease in the lemon crop due to a dry growing season, shipping worldwide has been down. However, the volumes to the United States (US) are up compared to last year, with less shipping to Europe and more imports into the US, indicating a more balanced lemon supply. Chile's lemon crop size is expected to remain similar to last year's due to an early frost, retaining some for the domestic market. Lemon prices are higher than in 2022, and spot markets remain stable, providing good returns for growers. Mexico will be the next supplier after the Argentinean-Chilean season, but drought-related problems have prompted shipments from other regions. Mexico's lemon season is expected to be two weeks behind schedule, with insufficient rainfall causing concern. The most abundant sizes are 165-140s, with a shortage of larger fruit keeping prices steady and high.

Lastly, Turkish lemon is a popular fresh fruit and vegetable export in Turkey, with various varieties available. The export season starts in September and includes Enterdonato and Lamas lemons. Turkey produces 5 million tons of citrus fruits annually, with 25% being lemons and limes. 93% comes from the Mediterranean and 7% from the Aegean Region. Mersin, Adana, and Muğla provinces contribute 90%. In 2022, lemon production increased by 20%, reaching 1.3 million tons. Turkey exports 40% of its lemon production, supplying 500 thousand tons to Iraq, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, and European Union countries, accounting for 20% of global lemon exports.