Mexican Citrus Exports Surge as US Demand Increases

The US citrus market has seen a notable increase in demand, largely driven by a significant drop in local production, especially in Florida, which once led global citrus output. Florida’s output has dwindled from more than 10Mt to under a 1Mt annually, creating a gap that Mexican citrus exporters are eager to fill. As demand grows, Mexican suppliers, especially those near the US-Mexico border, are strategically positioned to meet this demand with fresh and high-quality citrus products. 

Jorge Flores, Sales Manager, Vit Citrus, notes that every year, demand for the company’s products in the United States increases. The company exports approximately 15,000t of citrus annually, including oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, generating between US$10 and US$12 million in annual revenue. The northern country remains the primary market, accounting for about 90% of Mexico’s citrus exports. Flores pointed out that Vit Citrus’s proximity to the United States, just 180 miles from the border, gives Vit Citrus a logistical advantage, enabling it to ship products efficiently through Nogales, Arizona. To maintain product quality, the company relies on real-time temperature monitoring during transit.

The citrus juice market has also seen price increases, with prices rising from US$0.22 per pound in 2023 to between US$0.25 and US$0.28 per pound in 2024, depending on the specific trade agreements. However, the sector faces challenges related to quality regulations. For instance, Vit Citrus could only export grapefruits last year that met the United States No. 1 grade, limiting its export options and forcing it to hold back high-quality fruit. Additionally, the European market presents its own challenges, including the need for GlobalGAP certification, which requires significant investments in time and resources.

Despite these challenges, Vit Citrus is optimistic about its prospects. The company anticipates increased production volumes in the coming years, as younger orchards begin to yield fruit at full capacity. The growing demand for organic citrus on the West Coast, particularly in California and Arizona, further enhances the company’s growth potential.

Vit Citrus has implemented several innovations to support this expansion, including eco-friendly packaging and advanced traceability software that allows for precise tracking of production and efficient shipment management. The company also prioritizes worker welfare, adhering to strict safety and fair-trade practices in its orchards, which contributes to improving labor conditions.

Looking ahead, Flores believes the citrus market will remain robust. "Citrus is a staple product, something that people consume daily," he says, adding that the ongoing demand for oranges will ensure the product remains essential in households across the United States.