In this first week of the year, the transition to second-season citrus is fully underway. In the case of clementines "there is still some Clemenules and other varieties such as Periquina, but retail chains are asking for Tango and Nadorcott," says a Valencian operator.
"According to other growers, the Clemenules stocks will run out in 7 to 10 days at most. The way is also opening up for mandarin exports to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Tango mandarins are already being shipped regularly from Peru to the Mexican market and this year, the partners I work with are planning to start the season in Mexico with Spain and continue with Peru when their production arrives."
"After the festive season, this week, when the holidays are over, is like an impasse in which we are seeing what kind of demand is there in the market. Supermarkets have asked for a change in varieties and in this regard, there is little to do, but prices need to be in line because, according to some companies in the Castellon area, retailers are asking for Clemenvilla or Nova, but they want to pay 1 euro/kilo, while in Italy prices are reaching 1.70 euros. As far as the Tango is concerned, in Spain, an important retailer belonging to an investment fund is buying fruit of caliber 3 and larger in the Montesa area for 54 cents, well below what the growers were expecting," says the operator.
"As far as the Navelina is concerned, the industry has been paying a fairly good price of around 23 cents per kilo, according to some, so given the smaller sizes available this year (there's an abundance of sizes 5, 6, and 7) some producers have shown greater interest in the industry than in shipping their oranges abroad. In fact, there are clearly fewer opportunities in the fresh market due to this lack of large sizes."
"However, the situation is going to be much better for second-season oranges, as the rains have had a noticeable positive impact on the sizes. In fact, I expect to be able to start soon with the export of Portuguese and Spanish Navel Late with leaves, for which very good quality and sizes are expected."