Weekly updates on the citrus market
The European citrus market remains dynamic, as observed through Wikifarmer's activity. Climate change has impacted production volumes; however, demand during winter remains stable. Consumers continue to seek citrus fruits, valued for their nutritional properties and their role in boosting the immune system. The leading wholesale markets for fresh fruits and vegetables in Europe continue to see a strong supply, with many countries contributing to the offering. To understand this week’s market movements, we have gathered insights from Wikifarmer's commercial team, along with pricing data from the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the French Market News Network.
The European market for blond oranges remains dynamic, with Spain leading the supply through key varieties such as Navelina, Navel, and Salustiana. Egyptian imports, alongside Moroccan Salustiana, are often directed to juice processing.
Spanish citrus suppliers faced mounting pressure from competitive Egyptian offers, which are priced significantly lower. Industry stakeholders urge the European Commission and the Spanish Government to revise minimum import prices on non-EU citrus fruits. Such measures aim to level the playing field for European growers but could result in higher consumer prices. This ongoing issue continues to shape the market's competitive landscape.
However, the sector faces challenges with inconsistent pigmentation in varieties like Tarocco, which undermined consumer trust. Retailers struggle to manage inventory resembling standard blond oranges, resulting in reduced demand and pricing pressures. The lack of consumer awareness regarding natural pigmentation factors exacerbated this issue. Industry players could benefit from better consumer education and transparent labeling to restore confidence, stabilize demand, and uphold the premium positioning of red oranges.
Overall, the cold weather positively influenced consumer interest, with prices gradually decreasing except for some localized price increases.
The supply of clementines continues to decline, with Spain dominating the segment. Italian and Moroccan batches play a minor role. Conversely, mandarins are gaining prominence, led by Spanish varieties, while Israeli Orri increased market share and Turkish Nadorcott gained moderate relevance.
Despite overall growth in the availability of small citrus fruits, demand showed signs of saturation. However, high-sensory quality offerings bucked this trend, leading to upward price movements in some cases. In French wholesale markets, there is a great offer from different origins; however, due to saturated demand, the prices remain stable.
Spanish Primofiori lemons retained a stronghold on the market, enjoying a monopolistic presence in some regions. Turkish imports supplemented the supply, while Egyptian lemons lost influence and remained confined to Berlin.
Winter weather maintained lemon sales, driving increased interest in various markets with prices remaining stable.
The European citrus market demonstrated seasonal dynamism, driven by weather conditions and shifting consumer preferences. As the season progresses, the evolving interplay of market forces and consumer behavior will continue to shape trends across the citrus segment.