Carlos Salazar, delegate of the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA) in Colima, said there would be a shortage of limes in Colima because Hurricane Patricia had affected the crop.
At a press conference, he said that the winds generated by this weather event, in October 2015, toppled all the flowers from the lime trees, and from other crops that were flowering.
"The falling of the flowers is somewhat detrimental, because that crop, which takes place in January and February won't take place or will be very small. That's why we have to start dealing with the Federation so we can get support for producers of lime and coconut farmers, who were the most affected by Hurricane Patricia, and who have not been given any support yet," he said.
He clarified that what is currently being delivered to Colima producers is related to the crops by the insurance.
"I think there will definitely be a reduction in the production of limes, and these untimely rains will also hurt the lime a lot," he said.
He also acknowledged that, since there would be a reduction in production, prices would rise up until April this year, when production is expected to increase.
Finally, he said, lime production in the state has increased, as it closed 2015 at 280,000 tons because, thanks to all the support they have received through the different programs of the Federation, they have been able to give the plants the adequate nutrition.
Salazar spoke about the lime sector's situation after publicizing the opening of the different programs and components managed by the Federation to support rural producers and livestock producers.
Source: angelguardian.mx