W7 Lemon and Lime Update: Global Lemon and Lime Production Set to Reach 10 MMT in 2023/24, Brazilian Production Sector Discusses EU Requirements for Tahiti Acid Lime Exports, and Price Recovery for Export-Quality Lemons in Tzucacab, Mexico in Feb-24

Published 2024년 2월 25일

In W7 in the lemon and lime landscape, global lemon and lime production is forecasted to reach 10 mmt in 2023/24, driven by increased production in Türkiye, South Africa, and the EU. However, Mexico and the US expect to experience declines. Brazil's production sector is meeting to discuss EU requirements for Tahiti acid lime exports. In Tzucacab, Mexico, export-quality lemon prices are recovering, with small Persian lemon producers reporting increased profits. Lastly, Assam, India, has officially designated "Kazi Nemu" lemons as its state fruit to boost global agricultural recognition.

Global Lemon and Lime Production Expected to Reach 10 MMT in 2023/24

Lemon and lime global production for the 2023/24 season is projected to increase by 225 thousand metric tons (mt), reaching 10 million metric tons (mmt). This growth is due to increased production in several countries, including Türkiye, South Africa, and the European Union (EU), which are expected to offset declines in Mexico and the United States (US). According to a report from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), Türkiye is expected to see a significant rise in production, reaching a record 1.6 mmt due to favorable weather and higher yields. South Africa expects to increase production by 10% year-on-year (YoY) to 720 thousand mt, while Argentina anticipates a 3% YoY increase to 1.9 mmt due to favorable weather conditions. The EU forecasts a 16% YoY increase to 1.7 mmt. Chile is expected to produce 175 thousand mt, up by 11 thousand mt due to larger acreage and increased yields.

However, some countries are expected to experience production declines. Mexico's production is expected to decrease by 5% to 3 mmt, with reductions, particularly in Michoacán and Colima. The US also projects a decline, with production expected to fall by 254 thousand mt to 758 thousand mt due to adverse weather conditions in California.

Brazilian Production Sector Meets to Discuss Maintaining Tahiti Acid Lime Exports on February 22, 2024

The Secretariat of Agriculture and Supply's Agricultural Defense Coordination (CDA) has scheduled two meetings on February 22, 2023, to discuss the EU's requirements for the Tahiti acid lime market. Prompted by a Circular Letter from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) regarding phytosanitary measures, the meetings will focus on implementing field measures for lime producers and necessary adjustments for owners of Consolidation Units (CUs) that process and pack the fruits. The objective is to ensure producers comply with the measures needed to produce healthy fruits, meeting European health standards.

Price Recovery for Export-Quality Lemons in Tzucacab in Feb-24

The price of export-quality lemon in Tzucacab, Mexico, is recovering, with prices rising to USD 20.52 per 20-kilograms (MXN 350/20 kgs). Lemon producers anticipate improved profits if the price continues to increase during Easter. They believe cleaning, pest control, fertilization, and disease control are expensive for these crops. Due to recent rains, weeds have sprouted, necessitating herbicides or weed control to maintain fruit quality. Small Persian lemon producers reported a price increase in local markets, with prices increasing from USD 60 to USD 100/20 kg.

Assam Designates 'Kazi Nemu' as State Fruit to Boost Global Agricultural Recognition

In India, the State Agriculture Minister has officially designated "Kazi Nemu" as Assam’s state's fruit, highlighting its culinary heritage and enhancing the global visibility of its agricultural products. This follows the successful export of up to 5 thousand lemons to London in Dec-23, demonstrating Assam's growing international market presence and the commitment to promoting Assam's unique agricultural offerings globally.