Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: May - July

The citrus sector of Tucumán faces one of its most serious crises. About 4 to 6 years ago, discarded lemons were thrown away from the packaging because they were dirty fruit. But later those fields were no longer harvested. And now there are closures of farms and packaging. Some 12,000 hectares of lemon crops are abandoned or with medium or low care. This opens the door to HLB providing ideal conditions for “greening” to arrive and settle. This is in addition to the 6,000 hectares that have been lost or are irrecoverable. Producers and industrialists affirm that the season will be very complicated due to the low price of the fruit due to global overproduction. This is because other countries have ventured into lemons and have become serious competitors for the province in terms of exports. 

Added to this is that for 4 years there has been fresh fallen fruit that is not harvested because it constitutes a high cost in labour. Furthermore, 4 years ago, between 35 and 40 tonnes/ha were produced with good fertilisation, but today the production rate ranges between 5 and 8 tonnes/ha. That is, there is less production, and the producer can no longer make a living from this activity.

Orange Oil CP Citrus sinensis

According to the Fundecitrus forecast released in September, the 2024-2025 orange production in the São Paulo and West-Southwest of Minas Gerais citrus belt is expected to decrease to 215.8 M. boxes of 40.8 kg each. This represents a 7.1% decrease compared to the initial estimate in May of 232.38 M. boxes. 

This production is divided as follows (figures in parentheses indicate the drop in production as compared to the previous estimate):

• 36.47 M. boxes of the Hamlin, Westin, and Rubi varieties (-1.8%);
• 14.89 M. boxes of the Valencia Americana, Seleta, Pineapple and Alvorada varieties (-5.3%);
• 63.42 M. boxes of the Pera Rio variety (-10.6%);
• 74.39 M. boxes of the Valencia and Valencia Folha Murcha varieties (-8.8%);
• 26.61 M. boxes of the Natal variety (-1.4%).

The crop reduction is due to the smaller fruit size, which is a direct consequence of the hot and dry weather.  264 pieces of fruit will be required to fill a 40.8 kg box, 23 more pieces than estimated in May. This means the oranges are expected to weigh an average of 155 grammes, which is below the initial projection of 169 grammes. The weather conditions forecast in May for the first four months of the crop season were worse than expected, with rainfall 31% lower, according to Climatempo data. Additionally, high temperatures during the fall and winter intensified evapotranspiration, worsening the severity of the drought. Higher temperatures also accelerated fruit ripening. This led to a faster harvest pace. Consequently, the orange development period is shorter, and more than half of the crop will be harvested under drought conditions.

Harvest anticipation has a positive effect on reducing the fruit drop, mainly due to a reduction in the drop caused by greening. 

Fundecitrus’ annual survey of HLB in Brazil indicates that disease incidence rose from 38.06% in 2023 to 44.35% in 2024 throughout the Citrus Belt of São Paulo and Triângulo/Southwest Mineiro. This is the seventh consecutive year of growth for the disease.

HLB was found in approximately 90.36 million trees. In total, there are 203.74 million orange trees throughout the Citrus Belt.

Improved actions recommended by Fundecitrus and put into practice by citrus growers in psyllid control measures have recently been observed. These practices include the use of more efficient products, adoption of insecticide rotation with different modes of action, reduction of application interval and better spray quality.

Lavender Oil Lavandula angustifolia Harvest: July

Lavender can be seen growing along the Mediterranean coastline, including the Balkans, Adriatic coasts, and coastal regions of North Africa. It is native to the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean. It is also cultivated in South Asia, the Indian subcontinent, USA, and Australia. Lavender is a short, heavily branched shrub that can grow up to 24 inches in height. Lavender is primarily used as a culinary herb, for the extraction of essential oils as well as an ornamental plant for gardens and landscapes.

Lavender grows best in well-drained, fast draining soil that is moderately fertile. While it can prosper in chalky or alkaline soils, it will not survive heavy clay soil due to waterlogging. Prices are stable for this product.

Melissa Oil Melissa officinalis Harvest: July

Melissa, also known as lemon balm, is a perennial herb native to Europe and central Asia. It has bright green, crinkled leaves with a lemon like odor. The plant grows about two feet tall with branching stems. It flourishes in rich, moist, well-drained soil rich in humus. While it is a resilient plant and can prosper in most soil types, it prefers mildly acidic, neutral or even slightly alkaline soil. The plant prefers moderate temperatures, and should be kept in partial shade, especially during hot summers. 

Rose Oil Rosa damascena Harvest: May - June

 

Bulgaria is the leading producer of rose oil globally. Flowers have been cultivated in Rose valley for centuries. It is engulfed by the Balkan and Sredna Gora mountains. The conditions in this region are ideal for propagating roses.    

It produces high quality rose oil and had a bumper harvest this season to match its standards. Farmers employed effective harvesting techniques and had a favourable yield cycle. Production was underway untill mid-June, spanning over a period of almost 60 days. With Bulgaria experiencing mild winters, the first flowers bloomed mid-April itself, leading to an extremely early harvest season. The conditions in May were ideal for rose flourishing. Vibrant pink and fragrant roses filled the fields, courtesy the conducive humid, rainy, and cool weather. Rose picking is a popular tourist attraction and the locals’ welcome vacationers to join the task. While manufacturing costs remained constant, the price of oil increased slightly.

Cassia Oil Cinnamomum cassia

Cassia is primarily found in low-lying coastal areas in uncultivated fields. It grows across the globe in Central America, South China, Vietnam, Laos, India, USA and Africa. It is a medium-sized deciduous or semi-deciduous tree that grows up to 20m in height. It has a straight, cylindrical trunk and prefers cool and wet conditions to prosper. Cassia oil, extracted via steam distillation, is a dark brown, free-flowing liquid with a strong, and spicy odor.     

Demand for cassia oil is in the range of 1200-1500 MT. Volumes produced in autumn were 30% of expected quantities, while the spring crop is normal in size. Abundant rain has led to this reduction in crop size in 2024. Majority of Chinese natural benzaldehyde producers use Vietnamese cassia as a raw material. This could have resulted in a decline in the price of the Chinese variety. 

Citronella Oil Cymbopogon winterianus Harvest: June - December

Native to south Asia, citronella flourishes in tropical and subtropical climates with high humidity and abundant moisture. Citronella flourishes in sandy loam soil with vast amounts of organic matter. It struggles to thrive in heavy clay or sandy soil. The ideal pH range of soil for citronella growth should be between 5.8-6. 

There is a scarcity of product in the market. Inventory is running low with suppliers struggling to meet demand. This has resulted in an increase in oil price.

 

Eucalyptus Oil Eucalyptus globulus Harvest: July - October

Eucalyptus comes from the myrtle family and boosts of over 660 species of shrubs and trees. They are native to Australia and Tasmania and referred as gum trees or stringybark in these countries. Eucalyptus is mostly cultivated in temperate and tropical regions of India, Americas, Africa, Mediterranean basin, Middle East and China. The oil is extracted from the leaves of eucalyptus trees using either of the three methods, steam distillation, hydro-distillation or solvent extraction.

There are limited transactions in the market leading to the unwillingness of oil traders to sell crude oil. Labour availability is also an issue during the peak season, with most labourers involved in the harvest of corn and rice, and sowing seeds. Oil price has recovered slightly.  

Geranium Oil Pelargonium graveolens Harvest: May - September

Geraniums fall into two botanical groups. True geraniums are perennial, which can live for several years. They bloom during the spring and fall during autumn. Annual geraniums have lollipop like flowers and have a lifespan of a year. 

Geranium oil is extracted from the leaves, flowers and stem of the plant using steam distillation. During the process the plant’s aromatic active ingredients are extracted from water vapor. They are later condensed using cooling water. The oil produced has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. 

There is limited transaction in the market with demand being low. The oil price has stabilised.

Wintergreen Oil Gaultheria procumbens Harvest: July - September

Wintergreen is a perennial plant that grows up to 4-8 inches in height once fully matured. It is native to the mountainous regions of northern United States and southern Canada. Wintergreen oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant. Natural material is fermented first, and then distilled to acquire pure oil. Methyl salicylate is the active ingredient in the oil thus obtained. 

Demand and supply of the oil is low. This has resulted in reduced farmer interest in distilling the oil as compared to previous years. 

Coriander Seed Oil Corriandrum sativum L. Harvest: July - August

Coriander production and trade have seen notable fluctuations in recent years. In 2021–22, coriander oil production and exports were abundant, but for 2023–24, significant supply challenges are expected. The reduction in distillation volumes is due to raw material shortages, compounded by government sanctions and banking restrictions, limiting availability. Additionally, late spring frosts have affected coriander crops in key growing regions, resulting in lower yields this season.

September 2024 indicate varying market conditions, with fluctuations in coriander seed availability across different regions. The coriander industry continues to face challenges as supply remains tight, and no immediate relief is expected. As a result, further disruptions are likely as the market braces for another difficult cycle, leading to potential cost increases in the near term.

Fir Needle Oil Abies sibirica Harvest: November - December

The global Fir Needle Oil market is experiencing steady growth, valued at approximately USD 43 million in 2023 and expected to expand further through 2031. Recent trends indicate a rising demand for natural essential oils in the personal care, wellness, and aromatherapy sectors. This surge is driven by growing consumer preference for natural and organic products.

The September and October 2024 market highlight that the growth rate in the essential oil market, including fir needle oil, remains robust. However, the overall growth in global oil demand saw a slowdown, which contrasts with the increasing niche market demand for essential oils like fir needle oil. The Global Natural Fir Needle Oil Market research emphasizes a growing focus on sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly production techniques in this sector.

Helichrysum Oil Helichrysum italicum Harvest: July - August

Helichrysum oil is extracted from green parts of the plant including the stems and leaves. It is native to the Mediterranean region and southern Europe. The flowering period for helichrysum is between June to September and the flowers bloom for approximately 10 weeks. Spring is considered the ideal time to sow helichrysum. They take about a week to germinate and can be harvested once petals in the first couple of planted rows have unfurled. To dry these flowers, they are hung upside down in a dry, ventilated area for a period of two weeks.   

There is a consistent demand for helichrysum in the market, but production remains low. 

Lavandin Grosso Lavandula hybrida var. grosso Harvest: July - August

France created lavandin grosso to improve the plant’s productivity and resistance. It is a hybrid of two varieties of lavender and was discovered in 1972 by lavender grower Pierre Grosso. Apart from France, it is also cultivated in New Zealand, Spain, Michigan and Las Vegas. It has a sharp, camphorous scent and blooms with large violet flowers. Lavandin Grosso requires at least 6-8 hours of sunlight to thrive. 

The market situation for lavandin grosso remains tense. Producers south of France are struggling to manage costs. The price being offered in the market is not sustainable. Fair pricing is crucial for preserving regional agricultural practices and keeping the industry viable for local farmers.     

Violet Absolute Oil Viola odorata

Violet absolute is a thick liquid with a dark green hue and a strong, leafy, floral aroma. It is obtained from the leaves of violet odorata plant. The leaves are harvested between May and December. For extracting the oil, fresh leaves are placed in an extractor. Volatile solvents such as hexane are used to extract the oil. The solvent is then evaporated to obtain a dark green paste, which is later diluted with alcohol. 

The coastal region south of Grasse in France is one of  the major producers of violet absolute. Italy and China are other prominent producers of the oil. Egypt has been producing the oil since the early 20th century. The warm weather, and rich, humid soil conditions in Egypt are ideal for violet growth.   

Violet absolute is used in making skincare products due to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

Basil Oil Ocimum basilicum Harvest: November - February

A member of the mint family, basil needs well-drained, nutrient-rich soil to flourish. Steam distillation is used to extract basil oil from the leaves of the plant. The oil has a sweet, floral scent and is used as a flavouring agent in cooking. 

There has been a delay in the next crop and the season will commence from November.

Black Pepper Oil Piper nigrum L.

Black pepper thrives in hilly terrains and well-drained soil. It requires high temperature and abundant rainfall to propagate. Kerala is the biggest producer of black pepper in India accounting for almost 94% of production. Karnataka and Tamil Nadu also produce significant volumes of black pepper. 

Growing areas for black pepper received heavy rains, though there was no damage to the crop. Harvest season has concluded, and only limited stocks have entered the market. 

Cardamom Oil Elettaria cardamomum Harvest: September - December

Cardamom is native to India and Ceylon, but is also cultivated in Papua New Guinea, Tanzania, and Guatemala. The crop flourishes in tropical rainforests with temperatures in the range of 15-35oC. Cardamom thrives in loam soil, which is acidic in nature with pH levels between 5.5-6.5. 

Rainfall will determine the upcoming harvest volumes. Currently, stock entering the market has seen a 20 percent decline in alternate weeks and is almost 30 percent lower than the same time last year. Heavy rainfall in Kerala due to a strong southwest monsoon will positively impact the crop. Farmers are reluctant to release the crop at the current market price. 

There is a strong demand for cardamom, and the crop was damaged earlier in the year. This could potentially increase the price.

Coriander Oil Coriandrum sativum

Coriander is treated as a rabi crop and requires cool climate to grow, though the seeds need warm, dry climate to mature. It thrives in well-drained loamy soil and is cultivated across India. 

There was a consistent influx of fresh stock in the market in July, putting pressure on prices. Stocks are available in abundance, and even though production may fall, prices are expected to stay low. 

Cornmint Oil Mentha arvensis Harvest: May - July

Mentha arvensis a perennial herb that prospers in temperate to tropical climates. Also known as Japanese mint it is primarily cultivated in India in Uttar Pradesh with smaller plantations in Punjab and Haryana. 

Both piperita and arvensis belong to the lamiaceae family. The two differ slightly in terms of flavour. While mentha arvensis has a strong, sweet mint flavour, mentha piperita has a pungent taste with a cooling aftertaste and is primarily used for flavouring gum, tea and toothpaste. Mentha arvensis has a complex chemical composition as opposed to mentha piperita. Both oils contain menthol and menthone, but mentha arvensis also has methyl acetate, piperitone, neomenthol, limonene, isomenthone and flavonoids among other chemcials.    

The new crop is expected to be lower than 2023. Prices are increasing.

 

Davana Oil Artemisia Pallens Harvest: February - April

There is steady demand for the oil without major fluctuations in the market. Carryover stock is getting exhausted. Farmers are liquidating stocks partially and holding on to the rest. The 2024 crop was average, and harvest season has concluded. 

With harvesting taking place in hot weather the crop was premature, and oil produced is low on davanone content. There is sufficient stock of low davanone content available in the market.  

Lemongrass Oil Cymbopogon citratus Harvest: July - November

Heavy rainfall and cyclones in growing areas have impacted the crop adversely. Harvesting has been delayed due to rain as well. With growing demand and limited arrivals in the market, price of lemongrass oil has increased.

Palmarosa Oil Cymbopogon martini Harvest: January - June

Palmarosa oil is extracted via steam distillation from dried leaves of  the palmarosa plant. The primary component of palmarosa oil is geraniol, which is extremely popular as an ingredient in perfumes. Palmarosa oil leaves a long-lasting rose note and is popularly used in niche perfumes.

There is hardly any availability of the oil in the market.  The Majority of farmers have ceased production due to poor demand in the last couple of years. Even though demand has seen a spurt since December 2023, there is limited stock since production is negligible.

Peppermint Oil Mentha piperita Harvest: April - July

Mentha piperita or mint thrives in temperate to tropical climates with moderate rain and deep, humus-rich moisture retaining soil. In India, Uttar Pradesh is the leading producer of mint.

Historical evidence suggests that mentha piperita is one of the world’s oldest medicine formulations being used for over 10,000 years. The aromatic herb has antibacterial properties and works against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is also an antioxidant and astringent that can aid in relieving itching and inflammation. Mentha piperita is used in conventional medicine to treat toothaches, nausea, cramps, indigestion, cold and sore throats.  

 With lower arrivals from several regions, the crop size has decreased by  25%, even though Uttar Pradesh has managed to maintain the volumes from last year. Demand for the oil is high, while the yield has been lower. This has resulted in an increase in price.

Citronella Oil Cymbopogon winterianus Harvest: October - February

In the world of fragrant plants, citronella stands out with its clusters of delicate pink and purple flowers. Interestingly, these blooms don’t carry a scent; instead, it’s the leaves that release the plant’s characteristic fragrance. In warmer regions, citronella showcases its blossoms throughout the year, while in cooler climates, its flowering period is limited to spring through fall.

Many farmers have stepped away from cultivating citronella, mainly due to the low prices for raw materials over the past year. But since April, demand for this valuable oil has surged, while the supply has dwindled dramatically. This shortage has caused a sharp rise in citronella oil prices.

Clove Oil Eugenia caryophyllata Harvest: May - September

The clove market is facing significant pressure due to supply constraints, logistical issues, and rising prices. Demand for cloves remains high, but the availability of raw materials is limited. Clove thrives in warm, tropical climates, but weather forecasts in Indonesia indicate conditions unfavourable for its growth. There is a possibility of a short or absent dry season, which could reduce production volumes. Current yields are already low, and this trend is likely to persist until at least July 2024. Additionally, shipping clove oil is becoming more difficult as transport companies are refusing to handle it due to its strong aroma. These factors have led to a rise in the prices of clove-related products, including clove leaf oil and eugenol.

Nutmeg Oil Myristica fragrans Harvest: All Year

Nutmeg trees take about 25 years to fully mature, reaching heights of up to 20 meters. These trees begin bearing fruit after approximately 8 years and can continue producing for over 60 years. Nutmeg thrives in hot, humid climates, with optimal growth requiring at least 150 cm of annual rainfall. The trees perform best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter, with clay loam, sandy loam, and red laterite soils being particularly favourable.

However, recent weather patterns in Indonesia, a key nutmeg-producing region, have been less than ideal. Although moderate rainfall is typical between June and August, concerns regarding nutmeg quality remain unresolved, posing ongoing challenges for growers.

Nutmeg trees take about 25 years to fully mature, reaching heights of up to 20 meters. These trees begin bearing fruit after approximately 8 years and can continue producing for over 60 years. Nutmeg thrives in hot, humid climates, with optimal growth requiring at least 150 cm of annual rainfall. The trees perform best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter, with clay loam, sandy loam, and red laterite soils being particularly favourable.

However, recent weather patterns in Indonesia, a key nutmeg-producing region, have been less than ideal. Although moderate rainfall is typical between June and August, concerns regarding nutmeg quality remain unresolved, posing ongoing challenges for growers.

Patchouli Oil Pogostemon cablin Harvest: All Year

Patchouli oil is extracted through a three-step distillation process. Distillers in the region are fetching never before prices in the market for the oil. Patchouli is traditionally harvested six months after planting, but the high price being fetched by the oil has resulted in farmers distilling the product within five months of planting. The oil thus produced is of lower quality. Though farmers are only selling half of their produced volumes, retaining the other in anticipation of further price rise.  

The upcoming crop cycle could produce lower yields due to scarcity of rain. Seeds planted can survive up to a month without rain, but if the situation does not improve volumes could become an issue. 

There is a conscious effort by patchouli users to reformulate their products to reduce dependency on the oil. Local farmers in Sulawesi foresee the upward trend of raw material prices to continue.

Lime Oil Citrus aurantifolia Harvest: May - August

The Mexican lime market is experiencing growth, driven by the increasing demand for lime-based products and their applications across various industries, including food, cleaning, paper, textiles, and construction. It is projected to register a CAGR of 4.1% during 2024-2029.

Mexico is one of the major countries producing and consuming citrus fruits. Both Persian and Key limes are economically important for Mexico. Key limes mostly remain in the Mexican domestic market for consumption. However, recently, there has been an increase in the exports of this variety. Key limes are grown mostly on the Southern Pacific Coast of Mexico.

The lime industry in Mexico is largely comprised of small-scale farmers who grow the fruit on small plots of land. To increase production, the Mexican government has launched programs to promote the adoption of new technologies and practices that can increase yields and reduce environmental impact.

 

Manuka Oil Leptospermum scoparium Harvest: April - October

Manuka oil is slowly but steadily gaining traction in the personal care segment. Manuka possesses powerful antimicrobial properties. Upon further research it is proving highly effective in controlling odour-causing bacteria. Brands are impressed by these positive findings and are increasingly adding manuka to their deodorant formulations. The oil is also sustainable and natural making it an attractive buy for today’s customers who are environmentally conscious and seeking natural solutions. Manuka has the potential to be the most attractive ingredient in innovative deodorant solutions.  

Manuka, scientifically known as leptospermum scoparium, is native to New Zealand and certain coastal areas in Australia. It is an adaptable tree grown and harvested in the wild. It flourishes in coastal regions and at higher altitudes. It can also sustain a broad range of temperatures and changes in climate. It can endure high speed winds, poor soil, and severe environments. It can forge roots in cliffs and swampy wetlands.

Cabreuva Oil Myrocarpus frondosus Harvest: All Year

Cabreuva, scientifically known as myrocarpus frondosus, belongs to the flowering family of fabaceae. It is primarily cultivated in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. The species is under the constant threat of habitat loss. It grows best in tropical regions with moderately high temperatures ranging between 20-26oC. Cabreuva trees require well-drained soil to prosper and run the risk of getting spoilt in land with water logging issue. Oil is in stock with production volumes at expected levels. 

Guaiacwood Oil Bulnesia Sarmientoi Harvest: All Year

Guaiac wood, also known as Palo Santo, is a slow growing, broad leaf shrub, which is popular globally for possessing the most resilient and hardest wood in the world. Argentina and Paraguay are major producers of guaiac wood as the soil and climate in the region is conducive to the growth to this evergreen tree. 

A mixture of wood and sawdust from the tree is steam distilled to produce guaiac wood oil. 

There are no restrictions on guaiac wood oil from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Fauna and Flora. There is decent supply of oil in the market.

Petitgrain Oil Citrus aurantium Harvest: All Year

Petitgrain oil is obtained via steam distillation from the bitter orange tree. The oil is greenish in colour with a woody orange aroma. Bitter orange trees grow in subtropical regions around the world and are cultivated for their fruits, flowers, and essential oil. They flower mostly in late spring between May and June. Paraguay accounts for 80% of the world’s petitgrain production. San Pedro region of Paraguay has the ideal climate for citrus production. 

Oil is available in the market. Major production is expected to commence mid-October. Volumes produced from June to August were lower than expected. 

 

Lime Oil Citrus aurantifolia Harvest: January - April

Lime trees thrive in warm, subtropical climate with plenty of sunlight. They prosper in well-drained soil, maintaining slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6-7. 

 

Lime oil is extracted from lemon peels and rind using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, hydro distillation or cold pressing. In certain cases, steam distillation is also used to extract oil from the leaves of lime tree.   

Last year the crop was severely impacted by climatic conditions. In between El Nino, Peru also had to tackle the Yaku Cyclone. On the other hand, 2024 has seen drought like conditions due to La Nina. If weather conditions don’t become favourable for lime, production volumes could potentially see a drop of 40% from last cycle. Other south American producers like Brazil and Bolivia are also experiencing similar challenges.  

There is scarcity of fruit and price has peaked in the third and fourth quarter. 

Buchu Leaf Oil Agathosma betulina Harvest: February - March, October - November

Major processors in the region formed the Buchu Association. This created tension between exporters, farmers and other harvesters who felt exporters didn’t include them in the debate and protected their interests above that of others and the buchu sector. Farmers with limited contracts with local processors are aligning interests with other crops and destroying buchu. They are setting fire to their buchu patches to regenerate fields and prepare for other crops. Harvest is likely to get impacted due to this activity. Cost of distilling buchu oil in the region has also gone up. This is due to the constant rise in the price of gas and other energy sources. Raw material prices have also been impacted due to the local currency exchange rate in comparison to USD.

There is uncertainty about the upcoming crop and the future of buchu oil. 

Lemon Oil Citrus limon (L.) Burm. F. Harvest: November - July

According to the latest estimates provided by AILIMPO, Spain will produce 1.26 million metric tonnes (MMT) of lemons in the 2024-2025 season, i.e. 21% less than the 1.6 MMT produced in the 2023-2024 season (the largest lemon harvest recorded to date). If correct, those 1.26 MMT would place 2024-2025 just below the average volumes recorded between 2018-2019 and 2023-2024. The Fino lemon will experience an 18% drop while the Verna lemon a 31% fall.

Additional text below from recent Fruit Juice Journal Sept/Oct

The decline in lemon production is confirmed by ASAJA Murcia, the agricultural association expects lemon production to decrease next season by 20% in the Fino variety and 30% in the Verna variety. This decrease is attributed to adverse weather conditions, limitations and poor quality of irrigation water, pests and diseases, and the reduction of crop management work due to a lack of profitability in the previous season. The 2023-24 campaign proved disastrous for producers as prices were significantly lower than production costs. Things are expected to return to normal next season.

The Murcia association of producers has called on large retailers to assume the real costs of production and avoid damaging commercial margins. The organization has also criticized EU restrictions on the use of phytosanitary products, which puts the health of the lemon groves at risk and demanded faster action from the Ministry of Agriculture in the authorisation of active materials.  Also ASAJA Murcia demands stricter control of citrus imports from third countries, both in phytosanitary terms and compliance with authorised quotas to protect local production and guarantee the quality of the products offered in the EU.

Black Pepper Oil Piper nigrum L. Harvest: December - February

Black pepper oil is extracted via steam distillation from dried berries of peppercorn plant. The resulting oil is strong with a spicy aroma and is pale green or yellow in colour. Other than steam distillation the oil can also be extracted using supercritical CO2 extraction, hydro-distillation and solvent extraction. Black pepper oil is used by the food and beverage industry, as well as an ingredient in cosmetics. It can be used to exfoliate the skin, reduce acne and nourish cells. Though it may cause skin irritation and should be avoided on sensitive skin. 

Due to the practice of bold material harvest being employed by farmers, price of extraction has increased significantly. There is a scarcity of black pepper and prices have shot up globally. In fact, raw material prices in the local market have doubled between May and August. 

Cinnamon Bark Oil Cinnamomum zeylanicum Harvest: May - December

Cinnamon comes from the dried inner bark of cinnamon tree. The plant grows well in tropical countries like Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Madagascar, South America and the West Indies. Sri Lanka is considered the home of cinnamon and produces the highest quality. The food industry is a major consumer of cinnamon. It is used in confections, curries, and beverages. The fragrance industry uses cinnamon in perfumes, pharmaceutical products and incense. 

Cinnamon bark oil is extracted from the bark of the tree and is rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds. It possesses antimicrobial properties and is good for skin and hair care.   

There is decent demand for the oil in the market. Harvest cycle is expected to continue through December. The off season concluded later than expected. There is a scarcity of raw material in the market, while the demand remains firm. This has resulted in an increase in raw material price.

Cinnamon Leaf Oil Cinnamomum zeylanicum Harvest: March - August

Cinnamon is a versatile plant and can grow in a variety of conditions. Though it thrives in well-drained soils with pH levels between 4.5-8. Warmer climates with plenty of sunlight are ideal for the growth of cinnamon. It grows best at low altitudes but can survive up to an elevation of 1000m above sea level.  

Cinnamon leaf oil has a warm, spicy, and musky aroma, and is slightly thick. It is extracted from the green leaves and bark of the plant using steam distillation. Cinnamon leaf oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent. It can thus be used to treat acne, rashes, infections, relieve pain in joints and muscles and can also calm dry skin.   

There is limited stock in the market and demand is increasing. Off season also concluded later and constant rains have been a hinderance. Raw material prices have increased because of the demand-supply dynamics

 

Citronella Oil Cymbopogon nardus Harvest: May - December

Citronella is a perennial herb that prospers in tropical and sub-tropical climates. It is compatible to most soil types, though grows best in sandy loam with copious amounts of organic matter. 

Ceylon citronella oil is extracted from Cymbopogon nardus plant via steam distillation. It is used as a fragrance in cosmetics, soaps, candles and incense.  Citronella is a popular fragrance and is used in making deodorants. It is also capable of slowing the growth of harmful bacteria and is used in aromatherapy. Citronella oil is also popular as a flavouring agent in food and beverages. 

There are quality concerns surrounding the oil regarding DEP and other contaminations. There is limited oil availability with only few farmers maintaining stock. 

 

Clove Bud Oil Syzygium aromaticum Harvest: January - February

Clove flourishes in warm, humid tropical climates. It is native to eastern Indonesia and is also grown in the hilly regions of India, Madagascar, Malaysia, Zanzibar and Sri Lanka. Clove trees require well-drained, moisture laden, nutrient rich soil throughout the year.

Clove bud oil has a strong and spicy aroma and is extracted by distilling dried flower buds from the tree. Stem and leaves of the tree can also be used to produce oil. 

The last crop cycle did not produce desired results and had limited output. Between October-November, farmers will get an indication of the upcoming harvest and flowering. Rise in local and global demand for clove and clove bud have resulted in firming of raw material price. 

 

Orange Oil Citrus sinensis Harvest: February - May

Global orange production for 2023-2024 is estimated to rise 1% to 47.4 million metric tonnes (MMT), as lower production in Brazil and the European Union is more than offset by larger crops in Egypt, USA and Turkey. USA production is estimated to rise 8% to 2.5 MMT on higher yields due to favourable weather. 

According to the USDA August 2024 forecast, Florida’s all orange production in 2023-2024 increased from previous season by 14% to 18.0 million boxes (M. boxes). Non-Valencia orange production (early, mid-season, and Navel varieties) at 6.76 M boxes is up 10% from 2022-2023 season, while Valencia orange production at 11.2 M boxes is up 16%.

The USDA left its September production estimates unchanged, and the supply fundamentals remain mixed. So far in 2024 the weather in Florida has been normal with no devastating hurricanes compared with previous seasons. Conditions have been a little drier than normal, but most producers have been able to maintain good growing conditions with the use of irrigation. Greening will continue to keep yields down for the next few years but seems to be reducing its impact on the market. In contrast, the high prices are impacting demand downwards.

Basil Oil Ocimum basilicum L. Harvest: November - February

Farmers are still in the process of completing their harvest cycle and are facing challenges due to Yagi typhoon. Though certain cultivators have already completed their third harvest cycle. 

Cassia Oil Cinnamomum cassia Harvest: July - December

Cassia plants grow in tropical regions across the globe. In Vietnam they are planted in two seasons, firstly in spring between February and March, and later in autumn in August-September. 

Cassia oil is extracted via steam distillation from the bark of Cinnamomum cassia. It is a dark brown, free-flowing liquid with a strong, and spicy odour.     

It is a challenging time for cassia market in Vietnam. Yen Bai and Lao Cai are the biggest cassia plantations in Vietnam. Both are at the risk of losing crop due to typhoon Yagi. The typhoon struck in first half of September and caused significant destruction. Northern Vietnam experienced major flooding, which is harmful to cassia crop and production. While water levels have started receding, recovery will take time.