The current Expana Benchmark Price (EBP) for orange concentrate FCA Europe is $6,700 per metric tonne as of December 31, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 13.5% but a decline of 4.3% in the last quarter. In January, market participants reported offers as low as $6,300/mt. The decrease in prices is linked to a drop in demand, influenced by high prices throughout the year that led to reduced consumption. Industry players note a shift in blending practices, with an increased inclusion of pineapple, apple, and other juice types to adjust flavor profiles. An industry insider remarked, "The orange juice sector is no longer as attractive as it used to be."
In Brazil, Fundecitrus updated its forecast for the 2024/25 marketing year orange crop, projecting a production of 223.14 million boxes. This estimate is a 3.4% increase from the September forecast of 215.80 million boxes but represents a 37.7% decrease year-on-year. Initial concerns that the significantly smaller 2024/25 crop would not meet supply demands for the 2025/26 marketing year have eased, attributed to the reduced global demand for Brazilian orange juice.
Source: Mintec/Expana