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Mexico | Production and markets
Squeezing every last drop: key to sustainable growth of the citrus industry in Mexico In 2023, citrus exports in Mexico increased by more than 50%, despite significant challenges such as pests, lack of technology and climate change. 7/25/2024
 Mexican citrus fruits.
In Mexico's vast and fertile terrain, the citrus industry emerges as an essential economic pillar for the country, as it ranks fifth in the world in production of this range of fruits, allocating 88% to domestic consumption, according to the Mexican Government. Among the citrus fruits that are most produced in the country are oranges, mandarins, lemons, Mexican and Persian limes; and grapefruit, which use a total surface area for their growth of more than 589,000 hectares across 23 states, where San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas and Veracruz stand out for their high production, according to the Mexican Agrifood and Fisheries Information Service. In this vibrant landscape, small producers and innovative companies play a crucial role not only in maintaining the harvest, but also in moving towards a prosperous and sustainable economy. The value of small producers Citrus was one of the products with the greatest increase in exports in 2023, since according to INEGI figures, in the first 11 months of the year they grew more than 50%, despite facing significant challenges such as pests, lack of technology and climate change. In this context, small producers are the beating heart of the industry, since, with their intimate knowledge of the soil and the local climate, they keep alive an agricultural tradition that has sustained communities for generations. However, in recent years they have shown accelerated growth thanks to strategic alliances with large corporations. Agrocitrus: innovation for sustainable growth Agrocitrus, which is part of Grupo Tahona, is an example of how small and medium producers can become reliable partners for large self-service chains. Its transition from being producers to a high-caliber packer is a testament to its commitment to quality. To meet strict market standards, the company has implemented advanced post-harvest practices for its wide variety of citrus, including the use of bins (industrial storage containers) to minimize damage to the fruit and washing and waxing processes that extend the shelf life of the production. Quality and safety are priorities in the citrus industry. Self-service chains and end consumers demand products that meet the highest standards, so it is not only important to focus on proper handling within the packaging areas, but also to ensure that transportation is carried out under rigorous cold chain conditions while generating the least possible environmental impact. Reducing the carbon footprint, maximizing freshness One of the notable aspects within the Agrocitrus supply chain is its alliance with CHEP, a leading company in sustainable logistics solutions. The collaboration has provided the packing company for more than 12 years with reusable pallets that meet strict quality and safety standards, and support the reduction of the carbon footprint in the supply chain. The pallets ensure that products reach consumers fresh and in optimal condition, by minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. This synergy has not only improved logistics and product handling, but has also set a new industry standard for more sustainable and responsible practices. Commitment to Zero Waste On the other hand, the sustainable supply chain is not the only thing that unites these two companies. It is also their strong commitment to generating the least amount of waste. Both Agrocitrus and CHEP share the vision towards a zero-waste model. As in any business in the food industry, it is common to have losses, however, the packing company seeks the way to make the most of all inputs. Fruits that do not meet sales standards are turned into 100% natural juice for a fast-moving consumer market. The peels are also used as feed that provides fiber for livestock, ensuring that nothing is wasted. This philosophy of reuse and sustainability reflects common values and reinforces their commitment to responsible and environmentally friendly practices. Companies like this one, supported by strategic alliances with entities like CHEP, are demonstrating that it is possible to move towards a more sustainable future without sacrificing quality or efficiency. Therefore, producers and packers, with the right support, can continue to be the pillar of this industry, ensuring that Mexico not only maintains its position as a leader in citrus production, but also becomes a model of sustainability and environmental responsibility for the world. Agrocitrus Agrocitrus is a company dedicated to the marketing, production and distribution of mainly national and imported citrus fruits such as orange, grapefruit, mandarin and seedless lime; depending on the season and production of these, they are handled in the different citrus producing parts of the country. It is located in the Atotonilco area of Alto Jalisco, and has activity with the main self-service chains and commercial partners. It is a company committed to the quality, presentation and distribution of products, as well as supporting the Mexican industry and countryside, with the objective of optimal development and growth. Brambles Brambles helps bring more goods to more people and more places than any other company on the planet. Its pallets and packaging make up the invisible pillars of the global supply chain, and the main brands on the planet trust Brambles to transport their goods in a more efficient, sustainable and safe way. As a pioneer of the collaborative economy, Brambles created one of the most sustainable logistics businesses in the world, which shares and reuses platforms under a model known as "pooling." Brambles primarily serves the fast-moving consumer goods (e.g. dry goods, groceries, health and personal care products), fresh produce, beverage, retail and general manufacturing sectors. The Group employs approximately 12,000 people and has approximately 330 million pallets, boxes and containers distributed across a network of more than 750 service centres. Brambles operates in more than 60 countries, with its largest transactions concentrated in North America and Western Europe. CHEP CHEP helps move more goods to more people in more places than any other organisation in the world. Its pallets, boxes and containers form the backbone of the global supply chain, and the world's biggest brands rely on CHEP to help them transport their goods more efficiently, sustainably and safely. CHEP has built one of the world's most sustainable logistics businesses by sharing and reusing its platforms through its model known as 'pooling'. CHEP primarily serves the fast-moving consumer goods (e.g., dry goods, grocery, health and personal care), fresh produce, beverage, retail and general manufacturing sectors. CHEP employs approximately 11,500 people and believes in the power of collective intelligence through diversity, inclusion and teamwork. CHEP owns approximately 353 million pallets, cases and containers through a network of more than 750 service centers. As part of the Brambles Group, CHEP operates in 60 countries, with its largest operations in North America and Western Europe.
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