Weather conditions associated with El Niño are already impacting several of Peru’s mandarin growing regions, creating one of the most challenging production environments witnessed in recent years. “Not only are production volumes affected, the weather is also slowing down the pace of color development,” says Omar Farronay with Agrifruits. For the fruit to develop a bright orange color, cool nights are required and unfortunately, El Niño has been bringing warm temperatures day and night.

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Omar Farronay visiting a mandarin orchard.

Delayed start
While color development is steadily improving week after week, it has resulted in a slower-than-usual start to the season. In an average year, shipments from Peru start around week 22/23, but this year, significant volumes won’t be shipped until week 27/28. The fruit has the right acidity levels, but growers and shippers had to wait about four to five weeks for the color to develop to acceptable levels. “Some countries are more lenient, but for the U.S., a bright orange color is a key attribute,” Farronay shared.

Smaller volumes of mandarins started shipping to the U.S. a couple weeks ago, but it has been challenging to maintain a constant volume. “We are only sending fruit that we know will get accepted in the market.” Patience, careful planning, and close coordination throughout the entire supply chain are required.

Reduced volume
Moving further into the season, more and more orchards are reaching the standards required by international markets and the overall outlook for the coming weeks is encouraging. However, Peru’s mandarin volume on its principal varieties – W. Murcott and Tango – is expected to be down about 20 to 30 percent this season.

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Enormous effort
Farronay adds that exceptional work is being carried out by growers and packing teams. “Behind every carton exported, there is an enormous effort from growers, field teams, quality inspectors, packing facilities, logistics partners, and commercial teams working together to overcome obstacles and deliver excellence. Their dedication to expertise, and commitment to quality have allowed us to continue delivering fruit that meets the high expectations of our customers worldwide, even under difficult circumstances,” he shared. This has enabled Agrifruits to remain focused on selecting and packing the best possible fruit for its partners across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

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For more information:
Omar Farronay
Agrifruits Holdings
[email protected]
https://agrifruits.us/