Although Spanish Verna lemons have harvested since week 10 in the earlier production areas, the export season is only starting this week with small volumes destined for some supermarket chains in countries like Germany, France and the UK.
According to sources in the sector, the price for the low volumes of Verna lemons is now higher than that of the Fino, which will still remain in the market for a few weeks. Depending on calibres and their presentation, the first Verna lemons shipped from Spain have reached an average of between 1.10 and 1.20 Euro per kilo at peak times.
Meanwhile, Argentina should have already been shipping goods to Europe by now, although floods have considerably delayed the start of the campaign and prices will be around 15% more expensive. Additionally, there could be significant quality issues due to rot problems.
This, together with a dollar to Euro exchange rate currently hurting Argentinian exporters, means that the start of the summer lemon season should be very positive for Spanish producers.