Citrus exports from PortCastelló to the United States, which previously marked the start of the campaign, have significantly decreased in recent years. This drop is mainly attributed to the imposition of tariffs by the Trump Administration in 2019, which has resulted in a halving of maritime shipments from Castellón in four years. By 2023, the export volume has decreased to just 9,146 tons, according to data provided by the Unió Llauradora i Ramadera.
At its peak, in 2014, up to 43,549 tons of citrus were exported via the port of Castelló, making it the State Ports' second-largest citrus exporter. However, following the application of the new rates in the US in 2019, the figures began to fall dramatically, going from 23,424 tons that year to 10,628 tons in 2022, and 9,146 tons in 2023.
Port sources indicate that the Castelló refrigeration terminal, which was previously actively dedicated to citrus fruit exports, has reduced its activity in this sector and is now mainly used for other types of fresh fruits and vegetables.
According to the Unió Llauradora, 97% of the citrus exported currently goes to Europe and is transported by road, leaving maritime transport with just a 3% share. This change reflects a significant adjustment in citrus export dynamics from Castellón, marked by current tariff policies and logistical preferences.
Source: castellonplaza.com