During week 9 of the year, 27,598 tons were harvested, and 23,520 tons were exported to the United States market. A remaining volume will continue to be exported until today, as loading is no longer possible on Sundays due to the lack of USDA engineers available. Inventories in the United States market have been decreasing, and demand appears to be more consistent across all sizes, with only Category 2 lagging slightly.

This week (week 10 of the year) we started with a harvest of 4,600 tons, apparently due to producers' price expectations. They are hoping to harvest during the window with the best conditions, so the coming weeks may see volumes very much in line with market demand, maintaining a stable or strong price for the product. Export volumes in the next few weeks could reach around 25,000 tons. This month we have a holiday on March 18th, affecting one day of harvesting, and also Holy Week, which will have only 3-4 days of normal work. We will see how these holidays affect the market.

The variation in orchards available for harvest between last week and this week is practically minimal, 4% less in the current week; however, the orchards are beginning to be in fewer hands, which causes more competition for the fruit.

Demand for the fruit will continue, and Mexico will practically be the sole supplier in the market. California seems to be starting a little later this year, trying to distribute its harvest in the best way.

The size curve remains normal, with size 48 predominating, although little by little the second category will increase, and the lag is due to issues of cosmetic quality in the fruit.

I wish you all an excellent week.

Antonio Villaseñor Zurita

antoniovz@aztecavo.com.mx