Endemic citrus greening is affecting U.S. oranges crop and the Brazilian production

Published: 16-Dec-2016

Citrus derivatives which are used in cosmetic manufacture and ingredients are facing a production shortage

The citrus situation in Florida is critical and dramatic.

Forecasts were already negative in October 2015, and have progressively got worst as of December 2015. The products affected include all oranges types, grapefruit, tangerine and all their derivatives.

In Florida orange production is down 7%, with Florida non-Valencia Orange production accounting for a negative 3% and Florida Valencia Orange Production accounting for a negative 11%. Grapefruit is down 6% and Tangerine 3%.

The total crop of oranges in USA during 2015-2016 has been forecasted at: 49,600 M boxes, with a drop of 28,992 M Boxes if compared to 2012-2013 (34% less); and 12,710 Million Boxes less than year 2013-2014; and 9.316 million boxes less than last season 2014-2015.

The executive VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, Mr. Michael Sparks stated, "The lower estimate is a reflection of the times and the challenges our growers face."

The CEO declares that, even though everyone knew that this year’s crop was going to be the lowest in years, they are very surprised by the dramatic situation.

The reason for this critical shortage is that Florida growers are battling citrus greening. It attacks the vascular system of a tree and can kill it within two years.

Citrus greening is endemic to Florida and has reduced production more than 50% over the past decade.

The current crop in Brazil for current crop 2015- 2016 ending December 2015, should show very limited quantity of processed oranges. It is estimated that the crop will be of 220 Million boxes versus 264 Million boxes of crop 2014-2015.

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