Algarve's Citrus Industry Launches Major International Push to Showcase Protected Geographical Indication in Four Key Markets

The Algarve's citrus sector is set to kick off a promotional campaign to internationalize the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for Algarve citrus fruits in the Spanish, French, German, and Canadian markets, as announced by AlgarOrange, the regional association of citrus operators.

First Promotional Action in Madrid

The initial promotional event will take place from September 30 to October 2 in Madrid, where Algarve Citrus PGI will participate in the sector-specific fair "Fruit Attraction." This will be followed by four additional actions targeting these four external markets, along with three initiatives within the Algarve region, all scheduled to conclude by the end of 2026, as outlined by AlgarOrange in a statement.

Strategic Market Selection

Spain, France, Germany, and Canada were chosen as target destinations not only because they offer growth potential for Algarve Citrus PGI but also because they host major international fairs in the sector, attracting thousands of potential clients from around the world.

Goals of the Campaign

Through these efforts, the aim is to increase the recognition, notoriety, and international visibility of the PGI and to foster among international consumers an appreciation for its quality, differentiation, and added value. AlgarOrange emphasized the region's role as Portugal's largest citrus producer.

Engaging Slogan and Product Appeal

The slogan selected for this initiative is "Get the taste. Feel the sun," which invites consumers to taste oranges, tangerines, clementines, or lemons produced in the Algarve under excellent conditions.

Excellence in Production Conditions

Key factors contributing to the excellence of Algarve PGI Citrus include the region's soil and climate, where ample sun exposure allows the fruits to achieve the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, as well as a high juice content.

Leadership and Project Integration

José Oliveira, president of AlgarOrange, stated, "This is a project of scale and ambition that will put Algarve Citrus PGI on the international map. We are opening doors in strategic markets and reinforcing the competitiveness of regional companies."

This promotion strategy is part of the "Internacionalizar + Algarve 3.0" project, which receives European funding from the Algarve2030 Program and aims to strengthen the international recognition of the region. The project is co-promoted by NERA — Business Association of the Algarve Region, AlgarOrange, Algarve Tourism Association, Algarve Wine Commission, Algarve Tourism Region, and the University of Algarve.

Production Details

Algarve Citrus PGI is produced by 15 regional operators in the municipalities of Albufeira, Castro Marim, Faro, Lagoa, Lagos, Loulé (excluding the parish of Ameixial), Monchique, Olhão, Portimão, São Brás de Alportel, Silves, Tavira (excluding the parish of Cachopo), and Vila Real de Santo António.

In the 2023/2024 harvest, production of Algarve Citrus PGI exceeded 64,000 tons, marking the highest volume in the last eight years.