Update on the GCC countries

The Middle East market continues to show strong demand for both lemons and soft citrus. However, price levels in Saudi Arabia remain volatile, making it challenging to accurately forecast pricing due to fluctuations within a single week.

Egyptian Valencia prices remain high with no competition from other countries in the market.

The apple market is showing positive momentum and is expected to strengthen as Royal Gala availability declines. In contrast, the pear market continues to face difficulties and remains under pressure. However, as volumes decrease in the coming weeks, an upward shift in market prices is anticipated.

• Citrus
• Pome
• Grape, Stone & Kiwi Fruit
• India & Bangladesh
• PPECB Statistics

Lemon harvesting in Hoedspruit and Letsitele is nearing completion, especially for smaller-sized fruit. Some producers are still picking selectively based on colour, while those using degreening methods are clearing orchards entirely. There is a noticeable reduction in small-sized fruit, which producers say points to a smaller overall crop this season. In orchards that have been fully harvested, volumes are reported to be down by 15–25%.

On the grapefruit side, some producers who had an off year last season are expecting higher yields this year.

Valencias oranges that pass for export, harvest will begin from week 20 for Turkey Valencia variety.

Market update

The market outlook for South African lemons remains positive, and price levels are expected stabilize.

Egyptian Valencias continue to perform well this season and are currently the only variety available in the market. However, volumes are lower than last year due to increased demand from Spain, where a significantly reduced orange crop has affected both domestic availability and export capacity.

The market is currently dominated by Chinese mandarins, as the Moroccan and Pakistani seasons have come to an end, with only limited volumes remaining. As a result, prices have risen. The market is expected to remain stable with the arrival of the first shipments from South Africa.

Current market prices for Star Ruby grapefruit are elevated. This has not been a typical season this year for grapefruit in the Middle East market, however price levels are expected to stabilize as additional volumes enter the market.

Grapes – Market Update           

The market is currently experiencing an oversupply of Chilean Red Globe grapes, which has also created challenges for South African grapes during this period—unlike last year, when the market was performing exceptionally well at this time.   

Kiwi fruit

Current market prices for Iranian kiwifruit are good due to less availability, and higher quality this season is further supporting demand.

India

Vermont movement is good

Movement of Vermont pears are good. Packhams have stopped. Plums are selling well just before new season China comes in. Apples moving with pressure on prices.

Bangladesh

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