Spanish citrus association Intercitrus has acknowledged that “hard work” lies ahead for the sector to prevent the loss of export markets to competitors, with measures set to be put in place to maintain quality standards during the season.
Following the “very negative” 2010/11 campaign during which poor prices were exacerbated by frost-affected fruit hitting consumer demand, the Valencia-based inter-professional organisation is aiming not to lose its market share.
In an interview with Spanish news agency EFE, Intercitrus’ president, Felipe Juan, advocated the creation of a Spanish citrus committee to put in place “the rules of the game” for all growers and to prevent the export of damaged fruit.
After the “serious crisis” suffered by Spain’s citrus producers last season, Juan said the sector would have to “work hard” to stop competitors taking over its export markets.
In terms of the season ahead, Valencia – Spain’s principal citrus production region – is expected to deliver almost 3.2m tonnes of fruit, a fall of almost 10 per cent compared with the campaign before.
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