Record-high citrus prices in Jamaica

While countries like Guyana enjoy a steady supply of citrus fruits throughout the year, others in the Caribbean, including Jamaica, are experiencing sharp price increases that are limiting consumer access to these staple fruits. Periodic supply shortages have led to steep price hikes, making citrus fruits less affordable for many households.

According to local media, citrus prices in Jamaica have reached record levels due to a severe shortage both locally and internationally. A combination of plant diseases and extreme weather events has disrupted production, leading to limited supply and soaring costs.

The demand for citrus seedlings has surged as more people attempt to cultivate small citrus plots in response to the crisis. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Jamaican government has introduced a citrus revitalization programme focused on the parish of Manchester. This initiative aims to boost production and stabilize the market in the long term.

Officials in Jamaica have raised concerns over the impact of high prices on consumers. The manager of the country's Seed Certification Unit within the Ministry of Agriculture, Alfred Barrett, emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that Jamaica now ranks among the nations with the most expensive citrus fruits globally.

The government's response includes efforts to increase citrus cultivation and support farmers in expanding their production. However, with climate-related challenges and ongoing disease threats, the road to recovery may take time.

Jamaica’s citrus crisis underscores a broader issue affecting fruit markets across the Caribbean. While some nations maintain stable citrus production, others face periodic shortages that drive up prices and disrupt consumption patterns. As climate change continues to impact agriculture, countries reliant on citrus farming must find sustainable solutions to ensure long-term stability in supply and affordability.

source: stabroeknews.com

photo: ja-mis.com