The 2024/25 citrus season in the northern hemisphere’s producing countries is turning out to be challenging while at the same time, Greek citrus production appears to be maintaining its strength.
Specifically, according to the annual forecast of the World Citrus Organization (WCO), based on data from producing countries like Egypt, Greece, Israel, Italy, Morocco, , Turkey, the USA, and Portugal, this year’s production is estimated at just under 27.3 million tons, a decrease of 8.73% compared to the previous season.
Meanwhile, exports are expected to follow a downward trend, reaching 8.38 million tons, with quantity reduced by 8.94% compared to 2023/24 and 9.78% below the average of the past four years.
The reduced sales compared to last year’s high levels are mainly due to Turkey returning to normal production levels after last year’s record numbers, as well as the expected decrease in Egypt’s production.
At the same time, extreme weather conditions such as late frosts, droughts, heatwaves, and new pests, or diseases continue to pose threats to the quality and harvest timing of the crops.
According to the Secretary General of the WCO, Philippe Binard, the market will continue to be affected by geopolitical instability, while consumer demand remains under pressure due to reduced purchasing power and inflation.
Reduced Orange Prices in the EU – Increase for Greece
Orange prices in Europe are experiencing fluctuations amid ongoing challenges, with Sept. seeing a 9.24% decrease compared to the previous month, due to supply restrictions.
According to the latest data, this Sept. the average price of oranges across the EU was 73.18 euros per 100 kg, reflecting a 9.24% decrease compared to last month.
At the same time, while the average EU price has decreased, price variations exist in different EU countries.
In the Greek citrus production sector, specifically, orange prices increased by 30.18% this Sept. compared to the same month of 2023, reaching 71.04 euros per 100 kg.
In contrast, Portugal recorded 82.24 euros per 100 kg, marking a 21.75% increase.
Outlook for Citrus Fruits
Despite these challenges, the citrus fruit market remains resilient, with analysts predicting that the combination of favorable weather forecasts and strategic adjustments to imports will help balance the market in the coming months.
