Lemon Market Holds Firm as California Strengthens and Imports Steady

UNITED STATES, ARGENTINA, CHILE & MEXICO - The lemon market is showing a mixed tone this week, with light supplies and fairly good to moderate demand shaping conditions across California, Mexico, and key import channels in Philadelphia. According to the USDA’s September 9, 2025, National FOB Review, Shippers First Grade 75s, Choice 95s, and 165s from California are trending higher, while other sizes are holding mostly steady.

In the South and Central District of California, prices are reflecting that firm demand. Shippers First Grade 7/10 bushel cartons are reported at 32.50–40.55 for 75s, mostly 38.10–40.55. Mid-range sizes are also strong, with 95s at 37.50–44.20, mostly 38.50–42.20, and 115s holding similar levels. Larger fruit is maintaining steady value, with 200s noted at 36.55–41.20, mostly 37.50–40.45, while 235s range from 32.50–40.20, mostly 33.50–36.55.

Choice-grade fruit is also seeing healthy movement. Cartons of 75s are priced between 23.50–34.55, mostly 28.10–31.20, while 95s are higher at 29.50–35.50, mostly 33.10–35.50. Consistency continues across 115s and 140s, which are moving mostly in the 33.10–36.50 range. Larger fruit, including 165s and 200s, are priced between 32.55–38.20, with most deals landing in the mid-30s.

Imports at Philadelphia ports from Argentina and Chile are described as light but steady. Marked Choice 17 kg cartons are unchanged from last week, with 165s and 200s both ranging from 28.00–34.00, mostly 28.00–30.00.

Meanwhile, crossings through Texas from Mexico continue to reflect a wide range in quality and condition. Choice cartons of 75s and 95s are priced between 24.00–27.00, with most transactions in the 24.00–26.00 range. Mid-sized fruit, including 115s and 140s, extend slightly higher at 24.00–28.00, though most deals are still landing closer to 24.00–26.00. Larger sizes remain steady as well, with 165s, 200s, and 235s all quoted at 22.00–26.00, mostly 22.00–24.00, with occasional higher or lower trades depending on quality.

Overall, the lemon market is holding firm in California and steady across import channels, as buyers navigate light supplies and moderate demand conditions.

Stay with ANUK for continuing insights into category movement and market activity.