Mexico’s citrus production seen marginally lower in 2025/26

Mexico’s total citrus production is forecast to edge down marginally in the 2025/26 season, according to the latest Citrus Annual from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service. The slight decline is mainly due to weaker orange output, partly offset by continued growth in lemons and limes.

Oranges

Orange production, Mexico’s largest citrus category, is projected to fall to around 4.7 million tonnes, down from the previous season. Weather variability in key producing regions is expected to weigh on yields. Despite the smaller crop, domestic consumption is forecast to increase slightly, supported by steady demand for fresh oranges.

Lemons and limes

Lemon and lime production is forecast to rise to approximately 3.3 million tonnes, driven by favourable growing conditions in major producing states such as Michoacán and Veracruz. Mexico remains one of the world’s leading suppliers of lemons and limes, and exports are expected to increase, supported by strong and consistent demand from the United States.

Grapefruit

Grapefruit production is expected to edge lower to about 450,000–480,000 tonnes, reflecting similar weather-related pressures seen in other citrus categories. Export volumes are forecast to remain limited.

Trade

The United States absorbs the vast majority of Mexican citrus exports, particularly lemons and limes. While lemon and lime exports are projected to grow, orange exports are forecast to decline in line with lower production. Imports of fresh citrus into Mexico are expected to remain low and largely unchanged.

Read the full report here.

source: fas.usda.gov

photo: fas.usda.gov