Lemon imports from Argentina into the US started in May. “We’ve been receiving product for the past month and we’re getting very good reception,” says Ronnie Cohen with Vision Global Group. “There haven’t been any quality issues and we’re receiving lots of repeat orders.” Both conventional and organic lemons are part of the offering from Argentina. “Last year was the first year we brought in organic lemons from Argentina and due to the success, we will continue to offer organic lemons.” Fruit has been arriving to us each week into the Northeast. Depending on the shelf-life and sizing, the Argentinian season generally runs into August.
Transit time for lemons from Argentina is about three to four weeks, depending on the port of departure. From Tucuman in the north, which is the country’s lemon growing region, product is either shipped from the port in Buenos Aires in Argentina or from the Chilean side. The distance from the growing region to either port is about the same. However, transit time from Chile to the US is a bit longer compared to Argentina and takes about a month.
Off-bloom season Mexico
While about 75 percent of Vision’s lemons are coming from Argentina this time of year, the remainder of the volume originates Mexico. “There are some crossings from Mexico, but the country’s regular season hasn’t started yet. It’s the off-bloom season that we’re in now, which generates a different product,” Cohen said. “The product is usable but has a different shelf-life and needs to be moved quickly.” For that reason, most lemons coming in from Mexico are staying in Texas or at least close to the Mexican border. Although there are enough crossings to create a market, the normal crop from Mexico will start mid-July or at the beginning of August. “That’s when we will transition to Mexico,” Cohen shared.
Pricing on lemons varies by week. “Right now, they are in the mid to high $20s. Although it’s digestible, it’s lower than what growers hope for. They expect to receive a number between the high $20s and low $30s per box.
Value-added
In addition to bulk product, Vision also offers bagged lemons. “We basically bag to order, both conventional and organic. Our Mr. Squeeze program that includes both bagged lemons and limes has been very successful.” In addition to these two citrus varieties, the company is expanding the citrus category. “Through the joint venture between Vision Import Group and William H. Kopke, we’ve been able to expand the citrus basket and are offering clementines, navel oranges, grapefruits, etc.. as well.”
For more information:
Ronnie Cohen
Vision Global Group, LLC
Tel: (+1) 917-930-7178
[email protected]
www.visionglobalgroup.com