The impacts of the evolving more humid climate in Mexico is evident by some reduction in supply to those in the U.S. over the festive and winter seasons. Fatima Morales, exporter of Persian limes for Moes Produce, a company Moes Produce in Veracruz, Mexico states “The U.S. market for Persian limes is currently entering an adjustment period that is affected by the fluctuation in supply as well as weather conditions in the key production regions in Mexico. From December through March, the demand typically increases because of the holidays and the start of winter. This is when customers want products rich in vitamin C.”

Morales explores the growing regions throughout Mexico and provides regular updates about Mexican lime exports and production along with pricing in the key market, the U.S. According to her, that production could decrease when the year comes to an end. Lime prices have dropped in the last week in succession but the rate decrease has decreased “with December generally being the month that sees lower lime harvests across Mexico. There is a possibility that supply will be lower through mid-January, which is when quantities typically begin to rebound. A lower inventory during December may cause an increase in prices in order to satisfy holiday demands.”

Price preferences, size and preference

“Smaller size of lime 25’s and the 230’s, are likely to continue to be in great interest from U.S. agents, because of the storage of larger sizes. A demand for smaller sizes could remain if buyers concentrate on strategically directing their stock. The larger sizes of 110’s and 150’s, and lesser demand, that has resulted in pricing stability or maybe small drops. But, if inventory levels decrease and there’s a lack in smaller sizes, the prices of bigger sizes may see an increase in February.” says Morales according to her observations of packs and farms in Mexico.

Impact of weather factors on

Morales states that the the weather conditions of Mexico’s most important agricultural regions such as Veracruz, Michoacan and Colima are crucial during the next few months. “Late rainfall or cold fronts can affect the quantity and quality of harvest. Furthermore, the effects of cold snaps that could occur hinder availability until early 2025, notably between January and February.”

Trends in imports within the U.S.

“During the time frame the imports coming from Mexico remain the principal source of supply for those in the U.S. market. Importers must be aware of any delays in logistics and changing market trends. If Mexican production improves in March, prices could improve, and supply could increase as we enter the season of spring.”

The advice she gives exporters is to be attentive to managing inventory, targeted campaigns and to ensure flexible supply chain. “Continuously check the levels of stock within the U.S. to avoid market oversaturation and to maintain a competitive price particularly for larger dimensions. In order to promote specific promotions, make use of the high demand during the holiday season between December and January to increase the popularity of smaller sizes with discounts or specific promotions. To ensure flexibility in supply chain keep in close contact with distributors and brokers in order in order to adapt exports to the changing market trends.”

Morales concluding by stating “From November to March there will be a resurgence in the Persian lime markets is in U.S. will be marked by fluctuation in supply as well as prices due to weather-related and seasonal aspects. Exporters must be flexible in order to take advantage of demands for particular sizes, and prepare for possible interruptions in supply.”

More information is available here:

Fatima Morales

Moes Production

[email protected]

https://www.instagram.com/moesproduce?r=nametag