W4 Strawberry Update: Saudi Arabia Clarifies Egyptian Strawberry Ban, California Faces Organic Supply Challenges, and Brazilian Harvest Surges in Caxias Do Sul

Saudi Arabia Clarifies Egyptian Strawberry Ban, Exports Will Commence in Feb-24

The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture's decision to halt strawberry imports is an internal regulatory move applied globally, not specifically to Egypt. The decision aims to regulate the Kingdom's internal market based on supply and demand. The Egyptian Agricultural Quarantine received an official letter outlining entry conditions for agricultural goods into Saudi Arabia. Strawberry exporters need a valid export permit by January 24, 2024. Importers with permits will face no issues, and import permits for strawberries will be reissued starting February 1, 2024. The Minister of Agriculture is actively monitoring the situation to protect recent gains in agricultural exports. The Ministry urges accuracy in media reporting to preserve the reputation of Egyptian agricultural exports, widely recognized for their quality and global demand.

Organic Strawberry Supply Persists in California, Despite Weather Variability and Low Volume

Despite weather challenges in California, Florida, and Mexico, a giant berry farm expects to have limited but sufficient organic strawberries for Valentine's Day, sourcing from multiple regions. Mexico is currently in peak production, with shipments expected through Mar-24 to Apr-24. Santa Maria in California continues to provide organic berries from its fall crop as it transitions to the spring crop. The overall California strawberry deal looks similar to the 2023 season. Despite some rain-related challenges, supplies for the fresh market have remained stable, with organic acreage expected to represent 15% of the total volume statewide, peaking from Apr-24 to Jun-24. Organic strawberry prices peaked due to recent rains, impacting demand, but an increase in volume is anticipated in late Jan-24 to Feb-24.

Brazilian Strawberry Harvest Surges in Caxias do Sul Region

Local producers in Brazil are gearing up for the upcoming months, focusing on planting and replanting seedlings sourced from both Spanish and national origins. A significant increase in cultivated area is on the horizon. Despite the limited supply compared to demand, prices for sales to markets, and fruit shops remain relatively high, ranging from USD 2.83 to 5.06 per kilogram (kg). Direct consumer sales are priced between USD 3.64 to 6.07/kg.