Analysts have identified a complex scenario within the European mandarin market towards the end of 2024, marked by consumer astonishment at elevated prices and producer grievances over low harvests not correlating with demand levels. Fedir Rybalko, a notable figure in the international fruit and vegetable market, reports a significant drop in Turkey's mandarin production for the year. Given Turkey's status as a leading exporter of fresh mandarins, this downturn has repercussions on pricing dynamics across Eastern Europe and the Middle East, with a notable impact on the EU market.
In Latvia, according to Marite Gailite from Latvijas dārznieks, the season has seen an unusual spike in mandarin and citrus fruit prices, with supermarkets pricing mandarins at €1.99/kg and discounted rates at €1.69/kg despite questionable quality. Gailite highlights a visible demand for mandarins in the EU, attributing the low harvest to adverse weather and logistical challenges. Concurrently, Italy witnessed similar price surges, unsettling consumers accustomed to more affordable rates for these seasonal fruits.
Wholesale mandarin prices have reached unprecedented levels in several countries, including Poland, Ukraine, and Moldova, as confirmed by EastFruit's price monitoring efforts. Central Asian markets like Uzbekistan and Tajikistan also report doubled prices, compounded by issues like counterfeit phytosanitary certificates for Pakistani mandarins. The demand downturn in key markets such as Russia and Ukraine, exacerbated by economic factors, has led to operational losses among Turkish packers and Russian importers, complicating the trade dynamics.
Rybalko sheds light on the reduced mandarin imports from Turkey to Ukraine, from 43,000 tons in December 2023 to 33,000 tons in December 2024, indicating a shift in trade flows with Greece partially offsetting the deficit. Despite current market challenges, Turkish exporters remain optimistic, delaying new contracts in anticipation of price escalations.
Source: East Fruit