Argentina’s citrus output is forecast to increase this year as the lemon crop in Tucumán recovers from a severe drought and late frosts in 2009 that affected the 2010 crop.
Total lemon output is set to rise by 250,000 tonnes to reach 1.25 million tonnes, according to data released by the US department of agriculture (USDA).
The vast majority of the lemon crop is grown in Tucumán in north-western Argentina.
Orange output across all regions of the South American country is forecast to reach 900,000t and easy-peelers to reach 400,000 tonnes.
Grapefruit supply is expected to fall due to a decrease in planted area. The crop has become increasingly unprofitable for growers and as a result many are switching to production of sugarcane and soybean.
USDA researchers expect exports to remain in line with last season as producers send only top quality fruit overseas.
