The Clementine harvest and eventual exports in Uruguay have been affected by the heavy rain that has caused major flooding in neighbouring Brazil and Argentina in recent weeks. The incessant rain led to the Uruguay River flooding its banks, displacing several thousand people.
According to Marta Bentancur, from the Union of Fruit Producers and Exporters of Uruguay (UPEFRUY), early estimates show that half the Clementine harvest has been affected. "Heavy rains have affected production areas along the Uruguay river and the southern part of the country as well. There will be a significant reduction in exports, at least of Clementine's. Some exporters have mentioned around 50% of Clementine's has been affected. At least 10,000 tons are said to be estimated, but the estimation is not yet for everyone."
Growers and exporters in Uruguay were hoping for a good normal season, after last year's drought. The pre-season saw good rain, with a promising crop of Clementine's to be harvested. Unfortunately, the heavy bout of rain that led to the flooding impacted the harvest negatively. Uruguay started their 2024 citrus export season with Clementine's exporting to the USA in April.
The heavy rain that led to the destructive flooding in neighbouring south of Brazil, has also affected Uruguay and Argentina in the bordering areas.
Bentancur says the ever-changing weather pattern is a concern. "We are being reached by the El Niño," she stated. By now, everyone in Latin America and other parts of the world know the impact of this extreme weather pattern that goes from drought to eventual and then sudden flash flooding. The National Emergency System (SINAE) of Uruguay has issued a further yellow alert earlier today (23 May, 2024), warning of strong storms and heavy rains that will continue to fall.
For more information:
Marta Bentancur
UPEFRUY
Tel: +598 2916 0635
Email: [email protected]
www.uruguayfruits.com.uy