In W22 in the orange landscape, it was reported that in May 2023, the value of ruby oranges experienced a significant decline due to reduced consumption resulting from lower temperatures in Brazil. However, the demand for ponkan tangerines remained steady, even with a slight increase in the harvested volume. In June 2023, the orange harvest in Brazil is expected to strengthen, but prices may remain stable in the market. Brazilian citrus cultivation has developed an orange variety that is resistant to the yellowing disease CVC, which has been plaguing orchards since the 1980s. The Navelina XR orange is the only naturally resistant to the bacterium that causes CVC, without suffering damage or being a host or source of relevant inoculum. South Africa's logistical infrastructure is facing challenges due to the implementation of new cold treatment regulations, leading to increased demand for cold storage space and electricity. Projections for the next five years indicate substantial growth in soft citrus and lemon production, while Valencia oranges are expected to maintain their normal growth. However, grapefruit and Navel oranges are anticipated to experience a decline in production. Further, La Unió Llauradora has expressed concern over the ongoing decline in harvest production in the Valencian Community. The production of oranges reached slightly over 2.9M tons in 2023, a decrease of 11% YoY and a 17% decrease compared to the average of previous years. Despite the decline in production, the average price paid to producers in the fields increased by 28% to USD 0.40/kg (EUR 0.37/kg). Additionally, the average price of the fruit leaving the warehouse stood at USD 1.02 (EUR 0.95/kg), which is 15% higher than the average of the last five harvest seasons. As a result, gross revenues amounted to USD 1.146.3M (EUR 1,069.1M), reflecting a 16% increase compared to the previous campaign.
Logistical conditions for exporting to China have experienced a notable improvement, as direct shipping routes have effectively reduced transit time by 7-10 days. Additionally, port congestion and loading delays have been minimized. The Chinese market stands out as particularly appealing compared to other destinations, offering favorable prices for both Egyptian exporters and Chinese importers. New citrus varieties like cara cara navels and blood oranges are gaining popularity among consumers in Australia, but there is a need for supermarkets to increase their stock of these fruits. The head of the South African citrus industry predicts a higher supply of cara cara navels this 2023. However, a grower from Queensland has ceased sending his blood oranges to retailers as there is a lack of interest from them. One suggestion to boost sales is for retailers to consider cutting up the fruit for display.
