Tunisia is projecting a citrus production of 265,000 tons for the 2025 season, a marginal decrease of approximately 3% compared to the previous year, according to an industry official. The harvest is also characterized by a notable increase in smaller-sized fruit, attributed to shifting climate patterns.
Imed Bey, President of the Regional Union of Agriculture and Fisheries for the Nabeul Governorate—a key citrus-growing region—provided the estimates in an interview with Express FM. He confirmed that while the overall fruit quality remains good, the proportion of smaller-sized fruit in this year’s harvest has risen to about 35%, up from 25% last year.
Despite the dip in volume and change in fruit size, consumers can expect market stability. Bey assured that various citrus varieties will begin arriving on shelves within the next ten days, with retail prices anticipated to remain close to last year’s levels. He described current producer prices as “reasonable.”
Climate Change Alters Flavor Profile
A significant point highlighted by Bey is the direct impact of climate conditions on the fruit’s taste. He reported a trend, first noticed last year, of “citrus has become sweeter,” suggesting that environmental factors are actively influencing the crop’s fundamental characteristics.
The official also addressed early-season challenges, stating that initial marketing difficulties have now been resolved. He acknowledged that the Mediterranean fruit fly did have some impact on production, though this was primarily contained at the individual farm level.
The 2025 season appears to reflect a broader adaptation within the agricultural sector, balancing traditional expectations with the evolving realities of modern farming.
TunisianMonitorOnlibe (BRC)
