The 2024-2025 campaign is set to bring a notable reduction in Spain’s lemon production, following last season’s record harvest. According to Ailimpo’s latest forecast, Spain’s total lemon production for the upcoming season is expected to reach 1.26 million metric tonnes (MMT), marking a 21% decrease from the 1.595 MMT recorded in 2023/2024. This decline is attributed to an 18% drop in Fino lemon production and a more pronounced 31% reduction in Verna lemons.

The Spanish lemon market will face significant challenges in balancing supply and demand. The previous campaign’s record-breaking harvest led to a situation where supply exceeded market capacity, putting downward pressure on prices and leaving many lemons unharvested. This year’s reduced harvest could alleviate some of that pressure, but market uncertainties remain. With the drop in production, attention now shifts to quality and market adjustments. The Verna lemon campaign, in particular, is expected to be shorter and more concentrated, potentially providing more opportunities for Spanish lemons in the European market before the arrival of fruit from the Southern Hemisphere. However, the effects of climate conditions on fruit sizes and overall yield will be key factors influencing the industry’s performance in the coming months.

On a global scale, Spain continues to be the world leader in organic lemons, maintaining a significant share of global production. The country’s commitment to organic farming ensures that Spanish lemons, as well as derived products such as juice and essential oil, remain a benchmark in the international market. As the season progresses, market players will closely monitor supply conditions, pricing trends, and export opportunities, particularly in light of competing production from countries such as Turkey, Italy, Greece, and Egypt. The evolving balance between production levels and demand will determine the outlook for Spain’s lemon industry in the months ahead.