Russia and Ukraine to become large exporters of Argentinean citrus fruits
According to USDA, the producers and exporters of citrus fruits of Argentinean origin observe the growing importance of Russia and Ukraine as large importers of this product. All EU countries imported 414 thousand tons, Russia and Ukraine along imported 168 thousand tons of citrus fruits in 2005. The growing export of citrus fruits from Argentina took place mostly due to the increased supplies to two above-mentioned countries. Argentina exports lemons, oranges, tangerines and grapefruits to Russia and Ukraine.
However, the citrus fruit export can decrease this season, according to USDA evaluations, The reason is the drought started in October 2005. So the production for citrus drops was estimated downwards to 2.43 mln. tons in 2006; the export was evaluated to decline down to 620 thousands tons. Tangerine is expected to perform the most dramatic production decline.
Argentinean producers say that 50% to 80% of tangerines will be left on trees in some regions of the
country, because they are not able to reach the commercial size as a result of lack of moisture. Such fruits won't suit even the inner market. Also, around 40% of Navel orange variety will be left on trees in the most drought-affected regions. However, 5% of producers in the northern-eastern regions of Argentina can count on high profits this year as they produce citrus fruits applying irrigation systems.
The weekly periodical of the CIS produce business, ""Agrooglyad: Vegetables and Fruits" journal" forecasts that the prices for citrus fruits can grow 10-15% in 2007 in Russia and Ukraine, if compared to the previous year. The reason is the production decline and the growing average prices in the major production areas. This fact can negatively affect the growth rates for citrus fruits import, but, at the same time, it will support the increase of apple and banana consumption.