Several key Mediterranean Basin countries expect to increase their exports of citrus this year, even against falling production in some states.
In Morocco, production is expected to be similar to
last year’s levels at 1.25 million tonnes but senders plan to increase exports by 10 per cent to 600,000t split evenly easy peelers and oranges, their industry representatives told a recent meeting of the Mediterranean citrus liaison committee in Athens.
While, there is no change forecast in Turkey’s general citrus yield from last year at 2.5mt and senders expect exports to remain in line with last year at 960,000t, there is a definite shift in focus. Exports of grapefruit are likely to decline by some 10 per cent, partly due to a recovery in the Florida industry. But there is also forecast a significant increase in exports of oranges, easy peelers and lemons as growers and exporters respond to market demands.
Egypt expects a rise of 60,000 tonnes in production, to 3.1mt and a 15,000t increase in exports to 665,000t, mainly of Navel oranges. Greek exports are forecast to remin in line with last year at about 330,000t, mostly Navel oranges. And in Cyprus, senders are forecasting a slump in export volumes of easy peeler and oranges to the tune of some 10 per cent.
Israel expects a very good crop in 2006-07, with high yields and good size fruits exports are forecast to climb to 157,000 tonnes compared to 142,000 tonnes last year.
No comments yet