Global production and trade is estimated at 52.2 million metric ton (MMT) and 3.8 MMT, respectively. Due to the poor growing conditions in Florida in 2009, the orange production is forecast to drop by 11%. The figures in this report do not reflect damage done in January by the cold weather as the full extent of the damage is not yet known. In California where the majority of US fresh orange exports are grown, the forecast is up 13%. The US orange trade is forecast to rise due to a good demand from Canada and Korea. Due to continued demand from Russia and the Middle East, South African exports are also expected to rise.

Global orange juice production is forecast to fall by 4% to 2,2 MMT, and exports are expected to fall by 2% because of reduced EU demand. The majority of US production comes from Florida, and due to the severe weather there is less fruit available so exports are expected to dwindle.

Meanwhile Brazil`s exports are expected to remain steady, and production is expected to grow by 4% if growing conditions remain good.

Source: www.freshplaza.com