By the time the South African fruit starts to arrive the market will be clear of Florida citrus, the expected arrival date is week 19. There is also grapefruit from Israel, Turkey and Spain on the market just now but it is not of top quality and customers are waiting for the arrivals from South Africa.
Estimates point to a smaller crop than last year, which according to Olivier is no bad thing as last year was difficult for South African citrus. The 2012 grapefruit crop estimate is between 5 and 10% down on the previous year but still large compared to the 2010 figure.
According to Olivier growers are asking high prices, but small players may be able to take advantage of this. He goes on to say that they will have to be very careful this season because although the first part of the season is looking promising the later part may prove challenging.
Sizes are better this year as well with plenty of 45s but some regions will see the smaller sizes.The exchange rate is still poor between the Rand and Euro, which is not good for the growers, also high freight costs due to oil prices will also be a challenge. South Africa has strong domestic and juice markets and Olivier believes that fruit below a certain level will not be exported.
As for oranges, slightly more Valencias are expected and the general size and quality are said to be good, but it is still early days. The oranges should also arrive to a fairly empty market due to the lack of Spanish fruit because of this year's frost.
All in all it looking to be a promising year for South African citrus.
For more information:
Contact:Olivier Fakhri
Georges Helfer SA
Tel: +33 145 12 3660
Mob: +33 612 44 0877
olivier.fakhri@helferfrance.fr
www.helfergroup.com