This last week, the Caribbean has seen one hurricane after another as the tropical storm season reaches its peak. For countries under the direct impact, citizens face a long and grim clean up as life gradually gets back to normal.
Mango producers have largely been spared destruction as growing regions remain out of the reach of the recent hurricanes. But for most US importers of produce from Central and South America, it is shipping delays that has been the main concern for those in the industry.
Danny Pollak of CarbAmericas, explained that the hurricanes in the Caribbean Sea pose the most impact in the form of shipping delays. "There is no direct effect on the growing regions from the hurricanes and now earthquake. We will, however, most likely have long delays in the ocean shipments due to the impassable weather which will potentially strain the continuity of supply and affect the markets for the short term."
Brazilian season looking positive
As the Mexican season largely wraps up in the next week, imports from Brazil will supply US markets over the next few months. And the season is looking positive in terms of steady supply and quality of the fruit. "Reports are for the Brazilian season to mirror what we have seen from last year.
The market should find a good level and stay pretty consistent through the whole season," said Pollak. "Quality has been excellent on the first containers we have received, and we expect the same beautiful full blush fruit we have become accustomed to from Brazil."
Demand steady but market may rise from shipment delays
The smaller fruit from Brazil is looking attractive to buyers but the market is currently steady as supply from Mexican growers continues to fill shelves. Pollak said that the shipping delays are not yet translating into higher prices but the market is poised to react should a shortage begin to become apparent.
"Brazilian fruit is still competing with the large Keitts coming out of Mexico, demanding around $5.50 - $6.00 per case," continued Pollak. "There is a little more demand for the smaller fruit, asking around $6.50 per case. If the delays are extensive due to the hurricanes, we should see a decent spike in pricing until the next containers arrive."
For more information:
Danny Pollak
CarbAmericas
Tel: +1 (732) 655 4223