"Since the beginning of the 2024 fruit season, the price of yellow lemons in China has been on a steady rise, with the most significant increase occurring in April and May. However, since mid-to-late June, price fluctuations have eased and the growth rate has slowed, though an overall upward trend remains," said Mr. Yao Guodong from Sichuan Puhui Zhiyuan Import and Export Trading Co., Ltd.
Mr. Yao explained that the primary driver behind the rising prices is a significant reduction in lemon production in key producing countries, including China and Turkey. "This season, lemon supply has been tight both domestically and internationally, leading to a supply-demand imbalance and driving prices higher. In China, lemon output in the 2024 season has dropped to nearly half of last year's volume. Meanwhile, Turkey, whose production season closely aligns with China's, has also seen a sharp decline in lemon output and even suspended exports in April. Global demand for lemons has remained steady, but the sharp drop in supply, particularly during April and May, has caused prices to surge," Mr. Yao added.
As summer approaches, domestic demand in China for lemons continues to grow. "The current price for fresh lemon raw materials has reached around $2.04/kg, compared to just $0.55–$0.69/kg during the same period in previous years," Mr. Yao noted.
Imported lemons, particularly from South Africa, have also entered the Chinese market, but have had a limited impact on local prices. "Due to the global shortage, countries around the world are relying on South African lemons to fill the gap. As a result, the volume of South African lemons arriving in China is lower than in previous years, and their prices are also on the rise," he explained.
"Since late May and early June, domestic lemon prices have shown more stability with reduced volatility. However, prices remain three times higher than the same period last year. This elevated price level carries some risk, and purchase orders have slowed as a result," said Mr. Yao. "Nevertheless, we still anticipate a potential upward trend. Many traders are uncertain about current lemon inventory levels, so most are buying and shipping cautiously in small volumes. Given that market demand remains consistent, there is still room for further price growth."
Sichuan Puhui Zhiyuan Import and Export Trading Co., Ltd. specializes in Anyue yellow lemons from Sichuan Province. The company operates its own lemon orchards and processing facilities, covering all aspects of lemon sourcing and export preparation.
For more information:
Yao Guodong
Sichuan Puhui Zhiyuan Import and Export Trading Co., Ltd.
Tel: +86 15311682510
Email: [email protected]
