The Valencian citrus campaign is halfway through its season with mixed results compared to initial expectations. Although a favorable start was anticipated due to lower production and high prices at source, the reality in European markets has been different. The strong presence of South African citrus fruits at the start of the season, especially in the small citrus segment such as clemenules, slowed demand and kept prices below expectations, complicating profitability in this first phase.
In addition to pressure from imports, production has been affected by climatic and phytosanitary factors that have increased the percentage of fruit discarded or destined for industry, further reducing producers' income in this initial stage. Industry personnel point out that prices at destination have been less than one euro per kilo, clearly below previous seasons, which has left a bittersweet taste in the first part of the season.
Despite these difficulties, the sector is approaching the second half of the season with cautious optimism. The first transactions involving hybrid varieties such as Clemenvilla, Sando, and Tango have begun with prices considered acceptable, and there is confidence that reduced competition from imports and a possible decline in production by competitors such as Morocco and Turkey could favor the commercial output of Valencian citrus fruits in the coming months. If demand normalizes, the season could recover in this final phase.
Read the original news story at Castellón Plaza.
