Exports to the United States have revitalized the citrus sector of Uruguay

For the citrus sector of Uruguay, the United States market has grown considerably to become the main market now. The sector expects further growth this year.

 

 

 

In Uruguay, the citrus sector has seen an increase in exports to the United States, with a star product, mandarin. Since 2015, citrus exports to the United States have increased and it is now the main destination.

 

 

 

In the first 4 months of 2020, the United States purchased more than 65% of the sector's total exports. According to forecasts, by the end of the year, these exports could experience further growth. In 2019 less than 20,000 tonnes of citrus fruits were exported to the United States and in 2020, the volume could reach 22,000 tonnes.

 

 

 

According to MGAP (Ministerio de Ganadería Agricultura y Pesca) data, the country produces between 250,000 and 300,000 tonnes of fruit each year. About 40% are exported, 40% are sold on the domestic market and 20% are processed into juice and other products. Exports are currently less than 100,000 tonnes. But in about 5 years, the citrus industry will have the conditions necessary to return to the level of 140,000 tonnes exported.