Spanish lemon producers’ association Ailimpo is forecasting a total production for the sector’s 2011/12 campaign of around 870,000 tonnes, a 6.4 per cent decrease compared with the season before.
However, the organisation said the expected crop was likely to feature a return to “normal” volumes following last year’s 930,512 tonnes, while fruit quality was said to be “exceptional”.
In terms of varieties, Ailimpo said the season, which is likely to begin in October, would include a “light decrease” in Fino lemon volumes and a “moderate increase” in Verna lemon production.
Despite this, the organisation said it expected Spanish exporters to be faced with a “highly competitive” market this season, marked by an “aggressive” offer from Turkey, especially in Eastern European countries.
Ailimpo claimed Turkish exporters were able to offer reduced prices due to subsidies from the country’s government and low production costs.
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