Florida citrus growers have had their share of challenges, from disease to hurricanes. However, industry leaders are now turning to California to help bridge the gap.
“California has been serving a role in helping to continue to provide this really premium quality fresh, not from concentrate juice for some of our premium brands that we find in Florida and helping to keep that market access open,” said Dr. Maria Zansler, Director of Economic and Market Research with the Florida Department of Citrus.
Zansler says there are big profits to be had with citrus, adding California growers could boost their bottom lines by selling their fruit for juice.
“The leading sources of orange juice that Florida processors are receiving in the middle of Florida’s challenging supply issues are from Brazil and Mexico by and large, but there are these niche markets in California that can help supply that, and certainly as we’re working to shore up our production once again following terrible hurricane events, that is helping to keep that market supply going.”
Right now, the top orange on the market is valencia, but there is a slight decline. Zansler adds navel oranges are also put into “not from concentrate” juice as well.
With core input inflation still hovering high, growers and retailers should plan pricing and promotions with tighter margins in mind — target early sales, leverage bundle deals, and secure logistics ahead of peak Halloween demand.
October 30, 2025 10:54 AM
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The U.S.-China summit raises hopes for stronger exports and reduced barriers, but U.S. ag players should remain strategically cautious until concrete volumes and certifications materialize.
October 30, 2025 10:37 AM
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Expect incremental near-term lift for feed grains, proteins, and ethanol as tariff cuts and smoother approvals translate into real orders.
October 29, 2025 03:04 PM
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If confirmed, early Chinese buys tighten nearby Gulf/PNW capacity and could bump basis in export-oriented regions.
October 29, 2025 10:15 AM
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The President’s trip to Asia this week follows a trade mission by the Iowa Soybean Association. Farmers say they were reminded that U.S. soybeans have an international reputation that can be easy to take for granted here at home.
October 28, 2025 11:28 AM
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Export volumes remain positive year-to-date, but weaker soybean loadings and slowing wheat movement hint at early bottlenecks in global demand or river logistics. Farmers should watch basis levels and freight conditions as export competition heats up.
October 28, 2025 10:58 AM
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