The Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) Cítricos Valencianos has officially launched its 2024/25 season, marking a significant milestone for the Valencian citrus industry. This year, the campaign emphasizes quality and authenticity, with the PGI certification ensuring the superior taste and traceability of oranges and clementines grown in the region.
Market Expansion and Retail Partnerships
The IGP Cítricos Valencianos label has grown in visibility thanks to strategic collaborations with major supermarket chains, including Carrefour, Consum, and El Corte Inglés. These partnerships make high-quality Valencian citrus more accessible to consumers, with early-season varieties like Oronules and Arrufatina leading the way. This growth is supported by robust promotional campaigns across Spain and other EU markets, which highlight the distinctive flavor and quality associated with the Valencian origin.
France, a key market for Valencian oranges, has shown heightened interest in the PGI certification, reflecting increasing consumer demand for regional and sustainably produced goods. Efforts to register more suppliers for the French market are underway, bolstering exports and reinforcing Valencia’s reputation as a leading citrus producer in Europe.
The Role of Regional Support
The regional government and agricultural cooperatives have played pivotal roles in boosting the citrus sector. Investments in marketing, along with the symbolic launch ceremonies attended by industry leaders, aim to highlight the economic and cultural importance of Valencian citrus. The sector contributes significantly to the region’s economy, accounting for 14% of global citrus exports.
Challenges and Adaptations
The Valencian citrus industry has also had to adapt to challenges like the extreme weather events brought by DANA (a localized weather pattern causing heavy rainfall), which disrupted traditional launch celebrations but did not derail the season’s progress. Farmers and cooperatives continue to uphold their commitments, ensuring timely delivery to markets.
The 2024/25 season for IGP-certified Valencian oranges underscores the strength and resilience of the region’s citrus industry. With increasing recognition of the PGI label, expanding international markets, and strong regional support, Valencian oranges are poised for a successful season that reinforces their global standing.
