Spanish citrus prices normalise

Spanish demand for citrus fruit is increasing as consumers look for alternative sources of vitamin C and healthy nutrients to combat the COVID-19 virus. The growing demand for citrus and the estimated 20% fall in the Spanish citrus crop in 2020 have normalised Spanish citrus prices over the last two weeks. Nevertheless, the sector guarantees it has ample supplies for the domestic and European markets. Last year, Spain’s “orange vest” demonstrators gathered in major cities protesting plummeting citrus prices following an influx of imports from South Africa. This year, shortly before the COVID-19 crisis, citrus growers, along with other farmers, had been on seven-week protest campaign against low commodity prices. According to statement by Agriculture Minister Planas on March 23, fresh produce farmers are receiving higher prices following a pledged revision of prices along the Spanish food supply chain.