Florida Citrus Industry Shows A 90% Decline In Production Since 2003-04

Florida’s citrus industry has experienced a 90% decline in production over the past two decades, according to a report from nonpartisan nonprofit Florida TaxWatch. The report examines the effects of citrus greening, hurricanes, and economic pressures on growers. Florida’s total citrus production has decreased from around 300 million boxes in 2003-04 to just 20 million boxes in 2023-24. The 2022-23 season was the worst production season in nearly a century for the state industry, with 15.8 million boxes of oranges and 1.8 million boxes of grapefruit. The upcoming 2024-25 season is forecasted to be even worse. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture forecast, Florida’s 2024-25 season is forecasted to produce 12 million boxes of oranges and 1.2 million boxes of grapefruits, recording a 33% decline in both categories from last season.