Lime growers in Mexico are reporting that heavy rains in Veracruz are starting to create difficult conditions for trucks. Although the rain has stopped this week, it's a situation that lime producers are monitoring. Supplies have been steady for several weeks now but if they become interrupted because of production difficulties, this can create a more challenging market.
"Supplies of limes out of Veracruz are still steady at the moment," said Mario Cisneros of Santis Produce. "There has been a lot of rain in the region lately and there are rumors in Mexico that trucks are more difficult to come by. When there is significant rain, it can make it difficult for trucks to access the fields and slows down picking and packing. Last week, for example, our packing house was only able to pack two out of five days. The rain has cleared up this week but it's a situation that is being monitored and can easily lead to a gap in supply."
Market higher but steady
After a turbulent few months earlier in the year, lime supplies and subsequent pricing have been relatively stable lately. With the slight interruption of supply though, prices have risen in the last few weeks, but still remain steady overall. "110s and 150s, which are the bigger limes, are steady at between $20 - $22," Cisneros observed. "175s and 200s are between $12 and $17. The cheapest at the moment are the smaller limes. 230s are $10 - $13, while 250s are between $7 - $9."
Cisneros added that it will depend on how many loads can eventually cross the border, with the company only receiving half of their expected amount last week. He also noted that demand is flat currently. "Last week, we were expecting four truckloads of limes, but only received two. It's a waiting game to see how many limes can cross the border. The market overall has been very quiet and customers are only buying what they need right now."
"Santis Produce is now turning its focus to mangoes," Cisneros shared. "We are about to start our Peruvian season next week. Conditions have been excellent there and we are expecting a good season."
For more information:
Mario Cisneros
Santis Produce
Tel: +1 (956) 316-4457
mario.sales@santisproduce.com
www.santisproduce.com