Orange pressing the 2019/20 crop slowed down in the first fortnight of March at most of the processors in São Paulo State. This was due to the low supply in the Brazilian citrus belt. Currently, only one plant (in Araraquara) among the three large-sized processors is crushing oranges, primarily early Pera Rio and late varieties (Natal and Folha Murcha). As usual, this plant should keep activities going until the crushing beginning for the 2020/21 crop.
Besides the lower orange supply, the quality of the fruits allocated to the industry is below the expected. Although the yield is considered satisfactory this season, it has been affected by the frequent rains in the first two months of 2020.
