Argentina’s lemon exports rise sharply in early 2026

Argentina’s lemon exports recorded strong growth in the first four months of 2026, driven by higher shipments of fresh lemons, concentrated lemon juice and essential oil
ARGENTINA-LEMON

According to Argentina’s Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, the value of lemon exports increased by 36% year-on-year, reaching $108 million between January and April. Export volumes also rose significantly, up 50% to 50,085 tonnes.

The figures, based on data from the Undersecretariat for Agri-Food Markets and International Integration and the Undersecretariat for Regional Economies and Small and Medium-sized Producers, confirm a positive start to the year for one of Argentina’s key citrus categories.

Fresh lemon shipments drive growth

The strongest increase came from fresh lemon exports, which grew by 76% in volume and 129% in value. Sales reached $26 million, representing an increase of $14.7 million compared with the same period last year.

Exports of concentrated lemon juice also performed strongly, with volumes up 23.6% and value rising by 67.1% to $32.4 million, an increase of $13 million year-on-year.

Record value for lemon essential oil

Lemon essential oil sales also stood out during the period, reaching a record $48.2 million, up 6% compared with 2025.

The average price per tonne increased by 9%, reaching $24,477, reinforcing the value of this by-product within Argentina’s lemon export chain.

Growth across international markets

The main export destinations for Argentine lemons and lemon-based products were the United States, Ireland, the Netherlands, Russia and Italy.

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However, the strongest growth rates were recorded in several other markets. Shipments to China increased by 921%, while exports to Spain rose by 729%. Strong gains were also reported in France (+640%), Japan (+217%) and Greece (+176%).

The results highlight Argentina’s ability to strengthen its position in both established and emerging markets, supported by higher export volumes and stronger demand for fresh lemons and processed lemon products.

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