Lemon production rises in Mexico and Spain in 2025

Lemons are a high-demand crop with large-scale production across key countries. Global output is led by a few major producers. At the top of the list is Mexico, which is now the largest producer of lemons and limes in the world.

According to the latest data from the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, Mexico is expected to produce 3.5 million metric tons during the 2024/2025 season. That’s an 8% increase from the previous year, thanks to ideal weather and a growing number of plantations. Most of Mexico’s exports go to the United States, which buys more than 90% of its lemons and limes.

In second place is the European Union, where Spain plays the biggest role. EU production is forecast to reach 1.7 million metric tons, supported by a strong harvest in Spain — up 16% from the previous season.

Turkey also shows solid growth with expected production of 1.6 million metric tons, while Argentina comes close with around 1.4 million metric tons, although its output has slightly dropped this year. Rounding out the top five is South Africa, which is projected to produce 720,000 metric tons, showing steady expansion in its citrus industry.

These figures highlight how a combination of climate, farming practices, and export markets shapes the global lemon trade. While Mexico continues to dominate, other countries like Spain, Turkey, and South Africa are also gaining ground — making lemon production a competitive and fast-evolving sector worldwide.

source: jagranjosh.com

photo: entrenosotros.consum.es