Update on the GCC countries

Saudi Arabia is expecting an increase in demand and sales during the Hajj period that will be celebrated by more than two million Pilgrims between 4 – 9 June 2025. There has been an increase in the demand for Citrus fruits.

Pears remain under pressure as there is the option of summer Stone fruits from Jordan and Syria at low prices and consumers prefer these fruits. This is normal for this time of the year and historically the market on Pears pick up from August. South African plums remain under pressure and are not performing well.

There is a good opportunity for Royal Gala Apples due to less availability in the market.

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

Lemon demand remains strong with high price levels. Markets are actively competing with Europe for available volumes.

In the northern regions, lemon packing is nearly finished, along with soft citrus varieties like Leanri and RHM, which have approximately one week of packing remaining. Tango harvesting will continue for several more weeks, while Nadorcotts are expected to begin in week 25.

Turkey valencias packing is expected to pick up from next week (week 24).

Navels from the Western Cape is late this season.

Priority in the Eastern Cape is to finish packing Nova’s as Lemons and Navels can hang on the trees for a longer period.

Market update

Lemons are maintaining strong performance, and the market outlook remains positive with prices staying high.

Soft citrus prices have held steady, with a minor decrease observed over the past week. Current market supply for soft citrus is coming from South Africa and China.

The market for Navels remains strong, with Spanish Navels in 9kg cartons matching the price levels of South African Navels in 15kg cartons in Saudi Arabia, driven by their exceptional quality.

There are mixed expectations on when Egyptian Valencias will be out of the market. But, it is generally believed that they will be out much earlier than last year.

Grapes – Market Update           

No report.

Kiwi fruit

The first shipments of kiwifruit from Chile have arrived in Saudi Arabia. However, the gold variety from New Zealand is seeing strong market performance, with significantly high prices for 5.8 kg compared to 10 kg from Chile.

Pomegranates – Market update

The first shipments of pomegranates from Peru have arrived in Saudi Arabia and are being sold at high prices for 3.6 kg. The market is currently supplied with pomegranates from both India and Peru.

India

Pear stocks keep rising

Vermont/Forelle prices keep dropping in the market as more stock arrives. Apples prices have hit a ceiling with push back from importers on price increases.

Bangladesh

No feedback due to Hajj Holiday in Bangladesh.