The upward trend in Tahiti lime prices in Brazil, which had been observed since Carnaval, reversed in late March. According to Cepea, the average price for Tahiti limes in the last week of March was approximately USD 5.83 per 27.2-kg box, marking a 6.15% decrease from the previous week.
This decline is attributed to a higher-than-expected supply of small-sized fruits in the in natura market, which impacted consumer interest in supermarkets. Meanwhile, higher-quality fruits continue to be directed toward export markets, where prices held steady at around USD 7.87 per 27.2-kg box in late March. This price exceeds January's average of USD 5.91 and February's USD 6.89.
Comexstat data shows that in 2024, Brazil's lemon exports generated USD 196.15 million. Although mango exports continue to lead with USD 350.3 million, lemon export income in early 2024 has already surpassed earnings from January and February.
In the orange market, early varieties such as Westing, Rubi, and Hamlin began entering the São Paulo market in late March, leading to a decline in in natura prices. The average price for pear oranges in the last week of March was approximately USD 19.42 per 40.8-kg box, reflecting a 3.15% decrease from the previous week.
Source: CEPEA