Mexican, Argentine Lemon Seasons Amid Climate Challenges

With the lemon season in full swing, both Argentina and Mexico are navigating distinct challenges that impact fruit size and market dynamics. Argentina, the world's largest lemon producer, faces a season marked by significant moisture during growth, resulting in predominantly larger-sized lemons. "Due to the humid conditions, shelf life is shortened, necessitating prompt dispatch despite commercial quality," noted Ronnie Cohen, Representative, Vision Global Group, an agriculture exporter company.

In contrast, Mexico's season has just started, yet growers face severe drought affecting fruit size. "The trees are stressed and producing smaller fruit," Cohen observes. Vision Global anticipates starting Mexican imports within two weeks, with the season expected to extend into December or January.

Overlap in availability between Argentina and Mexico is anticipated through June and July, coinciding with California's season. While Argentina and California manage larger-sized fruit due to ample water, Mexico presents an opportunity with its smaller fruit profile. "With an abundance of large lemons in the market, demand for smaller lemons remains robust," Cohen adds.

Vision Global, relying heavily on Mexico for limes, faces similar size challenges due to drought. "We are seeing predominantly smaller limes," Cohen remarks, noting price disparities with larger calibers. However, the market anticipates easing conditions by July or August, navigating supply-demand imbalances weekly, highlighted Vision Global Group.