According to lime producers in Mexico, the heavy rains in Veracruz are beginning to create difficult conditions for trucks. Even though the rain stopped this week, it is a situation that lime producers are controlling. The offer has been constant for several weeks, but if it were interrupted due to production difficulties, market conditions could become more challenging.
"The supply of limes from outside Veracruz remains stable at this time," said Mario Cisneros, of Santis Produce. "There has been a lot of rain in the area lately and there are rumors in Mexico that it is harder to get trucks. When it rains a lot, it is harder for trucks to access the farms, which slows the harvesting and packaging processes. Last week, for example, our packer could only pack the products two out of five days. The rain has decreased this week, but this situation can cause a gap in the supply."
A higher but stable market
After a few difficult months at the beginning of the year, the supply of lime and its prices have remained relatively stable lately. However, due to a slight interruption of the offer, prices have risen in recent weeks, but remain stable in general. "Sizes 110 and 150, which are the largest sizes, have stable prices that range between $20 and $22," Cisneros said. "Sizes 175 and 200 range between $12 and $17. The smallest limes are currently the cheapest ones. The 230 sizes are at $10 - $13, while the 250 sizes are at $7-$9."
Cisneros said that prices will depend on how many cargoes can cross the border, and that the company only received half of the amount it expected last week. He also said that demand was currently stable. "Last week, we were expecting four trucks with limes, but we only received two. We have to wait to see how many limes can cross the border. The market in general has been very quiet and customers are only buying what they need right now."
"Santis Produce is now focusing on mangoes," Cisneros stated. "We are about to start our Peruvian season next week. Conditions have been excellent there and we look forward to a good season."