Mexican produce shipments crossing the border at Nogales, AZ typically has its heaviest volume the first three months of each New Year and this time around looks no different.
West Mexico vegetables, most of which goes through Nogales for distribution around North American, is expected to be mostly normal.
The Fresh Produce Association of the Americans, based in Nogales, reported tropical storms during the growing season may slow the start of the season for some crops, but in total volumes are expected to be on track with previous years. Most years Nogales grows 1 to 3 percent in total volume.
Chamberlain Distributing Inc. of Nogales point to excessive rains that brought challenges with some crops in Sonora and Sinaloa, with some produce being affected more than others. Some seasons may even end sooner than usual, especially in Sonora, with items ranging from cucumbers to bell peppers and squash.
MAS Melons & Grapes of Rio Rico, AZ expresses optimism and notes most crops are looking good. The company is now winding down vegetables harvests from Caborca and Hermosillo. Harvest is not moving on to Colima, and will continue until about March. This means continuous shipments of watermelons, honeydews and mini watermelons lasting until mid-July.
Vamdervoet & Associates Inc. of Nogales has been shipping good volumes of honeydew, although Sonora production may end sooner than normal this season. The company report as many as 100 loads of watermelon a day has been crossing the border at Nogales.
Bernardi & Associates Inc. of Nogales admits quality hasn’t been the greatest on some Mexican vegetables since the season started last fall, but see that improving as the harvest moves along.