Return to normal lemon harvest in Spain

Spain is in line for a 2016/17 lemon harvest of 980,000 tons, up 22% on last season, according to the latest forecast by Ailimpo, the Spanish interprofessional association for lemons and grapefruit.

It estimates the grapefruit crop will come in at 67,000 tons, down 6% on 2015/16.

In a press release, the Murcia-based association said the figures represent a return to normal in the case of lemons and stability regarding grapefruit. It said they also mean Spain will continue its market leadership in Europe.

Spanish lemon, grapefruit harvest progress

Ailimpo said the Spanish lemon campaign is underway but with small volumes so far because of Southern Hemisphere stocks remain. It will pick up to full pace in October, when fresh lemons from Spain replace the older Southern Hemisphere fruit.

The grapefruit harvest will largely begin in the second half of October. Ailimpo also said it expects a drop in imports from Florida and Israel in Europe this season..

Its next harvest estimates are due to be released on January 26.