With their refreshing mix of sweet and sour aroma, citrus is one of the most beloved fruits and even make up the main fruit tree crop in the world. Not only that: demand for citrus is only increasing. This is mainly due to a recent rise in awareness of their health benefits and vitamin contents. At the same time, as heat waves are hitting much of Europe, and temperatures rise elsewhere, citrus fruits are enjoying a significant boost in popularity in major European destinations.
So, what does the citrus season have in store?
Fresh citrus fruits – Made in Israel
Israel has always been known for its citrus exports, because of its large selection of citrus varieties grown from mid-September and extending until April from the Galilee in the north, stretching to Israel’s central district. Israel’s citrus produce includes varieties of its local mandarins, Sunrise grapefruit and oranges, which have seen unprecedented success in the citrus-fruit export European markets, as well as North America and the Far East.
According to Moti Azari – ZIM Israel’s Reefer Department Manager, 2022 was quite a strong year for citrus exports to these destinations, compared to the previous season. Thanks to ZIM’s new, improved and direct ZMP service to the Far East, a shorter transit time is expected, which is especially critical for sensitive fruits.
Egypt: the world’s biggest exporter of oranges
The most prominent agricultural exports for Egypt this year are the citrus fruit, with total agricultural exports of the fruit reaching approximately 1.6 million tons. Among the citrus fruit family, Egypt has long been a global powerhouse for orange production, which amounts for around 80% of the total cultivated citrus area with main varieties such as the Navel and Valencia.
Like much of the world, Egyptian orange producers are struggling with many of the same challenges that currently affect farmers across the world such as food safety, quality requirements to meet specific standards of international markets, as well as unfavorable weather conditions. However, with increased demand comes increased responsibility – volumes are expected to be directed towards exports as the country is aiming to retain its place in the market and grow even further.
Turkey gears up for another fruitful season
Turkey has had a long and thriving citrus industry devoted to the fresh fruit and the country continues to produce high quality volumes that meet increasing local and global demands. Over the years, local agricultural exports have diversified to include a wide range of fruits. The widely popular tangerines, lemons, grapefruits, and other varieties known to the citrus family continue to develop in the country’s Mediterranean region and gain popularity among new markets.
Over the past two years, Turkey has experienced a sharp increase in both imports and exports within this commodity sector, while tending to customers in Israel, Europe, and Asia.
All about the sweet Spanish fruits
Spain’s main citrus production takes place in Andalusia and Murcia, but Comunidad Valenciana, located along the east coast of the country, is in fact the largest producer of citrus fruits in Europe. The perfect mix of excellent growing conditions and surrounding climate creates premium quality fruits that meet today’s global market demands.
Depending on its variety, these sweet Spanish varieties are available starting from September until mid-May and are destined to reach Canada with ZIM’s ZCA service, as well as various European markets. Other citrus varieties that have gained popularity in recent years include Satsuma mandarins, clementines, lemons, and grapefruit. Spain’s wide selection of citrus fruits are expected to have an upcoming successful season due to the growth of several orchards in the area.
ZIM’s Reefer services continue to thrive in the global refrigerated market. We plan to expand and continue to invest in advanced technology to ensure our reefer containers can provide the best solutions for shipping perishable goods. The dedicated Reefer Sales and Customer Service teams are all around the world and work together to properly respond to all commercial and operational expectations to guarantee the highest level of safety for this sector.
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