Florida Citrus Production Faces Major Decline

Florida's citrus industry is bracing for a challenging 2024-2025 season, with the USDA predicting a 33% decrease in orange production compared to the previous year, totaling 12 million boxes, and grapefruit production remaining at 1.2 million boxes. Although the production forecasts for oranges and grapefruits are unchanged from December, specialty crop estimates, particularly for tangerines and tangelos, have been lowered by 14%. The industry is still recovering from the damaging impacts of recent hurricanes and the ongoing threat of citrus greening disease, which has severely affected yields. Alico Inc., a major grower, recently announced its exit from the citrus business, citing environmental and economic challenges. Despite the grim outlook, industry leaders express cautious optimism, viewing the stable forecast as a small victory amidst the turmoil. Continued support from state and federal governments is crucial as the industry seeks to rebuild.