In the citrus market, Egypt and Spain are in the game with oranges. "The Egyptian oranges' share is increasing. Spanish importers can also meet their needs at prices that they can't compete with in Spain. All in all, a unique situation," begins Marcel van der Welle of Van Ooijen Citrus in the Netherlands.
"There's ample supply of Spanish oranges. However, suppliers say they expect to run out sooner than other years. There are plenty of Spanish Salustianas available, too. So far, they've been quite bold with their pricing. Salustianas from Egypt are now starting to come in at lower prices."
Relief
"The first Valencias will arrive in a week, and then the picture often changes. Juicing oranges have been very expensive for a long time. But, in the coming months, there will be some relief. Despite there being talk of things like higher costs, Egypt has plenty. Still, the Egyptians have enough competition among themselves to lower the price slightly. But the bottom is the bottom of what's possible," says Marcel.
He does not foresee any quality problems. "The quality from Egypt is good. In Spain, that isn't a problem if everything's fresh. However, If exporters speculate a bit, you sometimes don't know how long the products have been standing there, and you might be surprised at how they arrive."
Traditionally, Van Ooijen Citrus is a true Minneola specialist. "We import those from Israel, Turkey, Egypt, USA, and Peru. Australia is also an occasional option. Minneola demand is developing well, and people genuinely look forward to it. Unfortunately, the acreage is shrinking everywhere they're grown for us, like Turkey and Egypt," Marcel explains.
Adequate supply from Israel
"Israel has enough, but much goes directly to retail. We do plenty of Orri under our El Arte brand. Despite all the tensions and challenges in Israel, we still get enough to supply our customers. The US has its challenges as far as Minneolas are concerned. A later harvest, then water shortages, too much water, or it's too cold. Now, there are problems and delays in the Panama Canal due to a drought. Those are all hurdles we must overcome, but, that keeps it exciting."
When asked about the trends in citrus varieties, Van der Welle replies: "Cara Cara and Sanguinelli are becoming increasingly popular."
"Within citrus, varieties such as Starruby and White Marsh Seedless (white grapefruit) are diminishing."
"Juicing oranges like Salustiana are gaining popularity. And beautiful Spanish Tango mandarins are in demand," Marcel concludes.
For more information
Van Ooijen Citrus BV
149 Handelsweg
2988 DC, Ridderkerk, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 180 655 555
marcel@vanooijencitrus.nl
www.vanooijencitrus.nl