Soft Citrus Market Dynamics
Soft citrus price trends have closely mimicked those of oranges as shown in Figure 4.3, with rapid increases between 2015 and 2018, and a drop in 2019. Some recovery was apparent in 2020 but traded sideways into 2021. Similar to other citrus categories, this was largely the result of global and local logistical issues, higher shipping costs, and increased volumes. In 2022, pressures on prices persisted with constrained access to markets such as Bangladesh, which is an important destination for class 2 fruit. In terms of local market dynamics, almost 56% of the total soft citrus area is younger than 5 years. Like lemons, increased volumes to be marketed are therefore likely to weigh on average export prices over the coming years. To sustain returns additional international markets and management of cost through the chain is imperative. The 2021 and 2022 seasons have also shown the importance of cultivar selection with selected soft citrus variaties still yielding very attractive margins.
Average free on board (FOB) export prices for soft citrus (2012-2021)
16,00
15,50
15,00
14,50
14,00
13,50
13,00
12,50
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019 2020
2021
Source: ITC Trademap, 2022
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