Mexico’s main avocado crop is tightening; growers are delaying harvests to prolong the season until the Loca season begins in July. California and Peruvian stocks will be shipped to help fill orders, according to a press release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Mexico
- Expect limited supplies of the main crop as the season winds down
- Dry matter in the main crop ranges from 35-38%, which is common towards the end of the season.
- This higher percentage of dry matter causes fruit to ripen at a faster pace than normal. Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
- New crop Loca crop supplies will not enter the market until July
- The Loca crop is known for its lower dry matter and smaller sizes
- Mexican avocados account for 83% of U.S. demand
- Size, grade, and Country of Origin substitutions may be requested to fill orders
- Expect elevated markets and tight supplies through June
California
- Expect lower volume as California helps fill the void from Mexico
- The California season is past its peak and will wind down in late July
- California avocados account for 10% of the U.S. demand
- Size and grade substitutions may be requested to fill orders
- Expect high prices and low yields through June
Peru
- Volume is low
- The Peruvian season will run through August
- Peruvian avocados account for 7% of the U.S. demand; most is program business