Spain: imports of citrus increase by 85%

Tholen - The Spanish imports of citrus from third countries have increased by 85,5% this campaign. The most important cause of this, is the frost which has hit the citrus production this winter. Meanwhile, the exports of citrus show a decrease. The imports through Spanish ports have about doubled. During the period between September 1, 2003 and August 31, 2004, about 97K MT passed through Spanish ports. Between September 1, 2004 and August 20 this year the amount of shipments had increased to 180K MT.

Because of shortages from private production, exporters sought after merchandise from third countries to supply the European market between February and June. But also outside the Spanish season, Spain is exporting citrus from third countries to supply it?s European customers. Imports from Argentina, South Africa, Uruguay and Brazil have therefore increased.