Panama opens market to Argentine citrus exports

Panama has authorized the import of Argentine lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, opening a new international market for the country's citrus sector. This sanitary clearance, confirmed by the Instituto de Desarrollo Productivo (IDEP), provides a strategic opportunity for the province of Tucumán, which serves as Argentina's primary citrus hub.

Tucumán is a global leader in the industry, ranking as the top producer, processor, and exporter of industrial lemon derivatives, and the second-largest exporter of fresh fruit. The market opening benefits both fresh fruit and industrial products, including essential oils, concentrated juice, and dehydrated peel.

The citrus complex is a vital component of Tucumán's economy. According to IDEP's commercial intelligence reports, during the first quarter of 2026, provincial exports reached US$ 158.1 million FOB. Within this period, the lemon complex and its derivatives generated US$ 74.7 million FOB, representing a 23.4% increase compared to the same period the previous year.