California Fruit and Vegetable

Category: Industry News

  • The 2026 Blueberry Convention Is in Your Backyard

    The 2026 Blueberry Convention, Sept. 22-25, is taking place right in your backyard in Monterey!

    Since it’s so close to home, this is an excellent (and convenient) opportunity to connect in-person with industry colleagues, gain valuable insights during education sessions and keynotes, and help shape the future of our industry.

    Here’s what you can look forward to:

    • Get the latest category data and economic outlooks to guide your operations.
    • See the latest tech and ag solutions on Blueberry Lane and Blueberry Row.
    • Find out how our Blueberries GO BIG campaign is driving demand.
    • Learn about our health research focus on cognitive health.
    • Experience the excitement of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator live pitch competition.
    • Attend Blueberry Night at a California gem – the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
    • Join the USHBC Council and NABC Board meetings on Wednesday.

    Get a glimpse into the experience here: youtube.com/watch?v=iH988J9kvss&t=2s

    Then check out the full schedule to plan your experience (like adding the Blueberry Data & Intelligence Summit), then sign up to join us!

    [REGISTER NOW]

    More Ways to Stay in Monterey

    The 2026 Blueberry Convention will take place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey. While the deadline for our group rate has passed, you can contact the Hyatt Regency Monterey directly to check availability and pricing. Be sure to mention the NABC Convention!

    With strong interest in this year’s convention, we’ve expanded our housing options throughout Monterey. See the full list on the “Travel Information” tab on our Blueberry Convention webpage.

  • This Week in Ag – September 16

    California agriculture is seeing developments across several major commodities this week, from strong almond exports and an expanding citrus quarantine to concerns surrounding avocado production in Mexico.

    Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.

    Almond Market Looks Strong Heading Into 2027

    The California almond industry is beginning the new crop year with strong global demand and a tighter supply outlook, according to a recent market update from Blue Diamond Growers.

    August almond shipments totaled 190 million pounds, with exports accounting for 143.2 million pounds. That represents a 31% increase in exports compared with last year.

    India was the standout market, receiving 44.3 million pounds of California almonds in August, up approximately 170% from 16.4 million pounds during the same month last year. Blue Diamond attributed the increase in part to stronger replenishment ahead of India’s festival season and unusually low shipments during August 2025.

    Domestic shipments totaled 46.8 million pounds, down 3.3% year over year.

    On the production side, the 2026 harvest began approximately two weeks earlier than last year. Nonpareil and Independence varieties are largely harvested, with pollinizer varieties following behind.

    Early receipts are also pointing toward lower yields for Nonpareil and Independence compared with 2025. Combined with tighter supplies and continued export demand, Blue Diamond says current fundamentals are supporting a stable-to-firm market outlook.

    HLB Quarantine Expands in Riverside and San Diego Counties

    California is expanding another quarantine boundary for Huanglongbing, or HLB, as efforts continue to limit the spread of the deadly citrus disease.

    Effective Sept. 11, the California Department of Food and Agriculture expanded the HLB quarantine in the Murrieta area of Riverside County and into San Diego County. The expansion includes grids 484, 499 and 510.

    CDFA also expanded Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in those areas to reflect the new HLB quarantine boundary.

    HLB, also known as citrus greening disease, poses a significant threat to citrus production. The Asian citrus psyllid can spread the bacterium associated with the disease from infected citrus to healthy plants.

    The quarantine includes regulations governing the movement of certain citrus plants, fruit and other regulated materials in an effort to reduce the risk of further spread.

    California Avocado Commission Responds to Report on Mexico’s Avocado Region

    A Los Angeles Times report detailing violence and intimidation in a major avocado-producing region of Mexico is drawing attention from the California avocado industry.

    The report focuses on families in San Ángel Zurumucapio, Michoacán, where avocado production has provided economic opportunities but growers and residents have also faced extortion, kidnappings and violence.

    The California Avocado Commission cited the report while renewing its call for limits on Mexican avocado imports under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

    The commission argues that import limits would help protect U.S. avocado growers, the domestic industry and the food supply.

    The proposal represents the California Avocado Commission’s position on trade policy as it continues advocating for domestic avocado producers.

    Colin O’Neil Joins Organic Trade Association Leadership

    The Organic Trade Association has hired Colin O’Neil as senior vice president to lead the organization’s public affairs efforts.

    O’Neil will direct legislative and regulatory work, advocacy and stakeholder engagement for the trade association, which represents organic farmers and businesses throughout North America.

    His responsibilities will include initiatives aimed at reducing barriers to organic adoption, strengthening confidence in the USDA Organic seal and expanding opportunities for organic farmers and businesses.

    The Organic Trade Association says the organic sector is now valued at approximately $76 billion.

    O’Neil will also oversee the association’s political action committee.

    Sun World International Celebrates 50 Years

    Sun World International is celebrating five decades in the fresh produce industry.

    The company marked its 50th anniversary during its 2026 Symposium and Field Days. Founded in 1976 by Howard Marguleas, Carl Maggio and Domenick Bianco, Sun World began as a California produce marketing company.

    Over the following five decades, the company expanded into fruit genetics and licensing, with its work including the commercialization of seedless watermelon, seedless table grapes and lemons.

    Sun World also recognized Board Chairman David Marguleas for 40 years of leadership and contributions to the company.

    As part of the recognition, Sun World established the David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund in support of UC Davis Viticulture & Enology and dedicated the David Marguleas Tasting Room at the Sun World Center for Innovation.

    Stay Connected With California Ag Network

    From strong export demand for California almonds to new challenges and developments affecting citrus, avocados, organics and fresh produce, This Week in Ag brings together five stories shaping the industry each week.

    For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.

  • Sun World International Celebrates 50 Years

    Sun World International, a global leader in fruit genetics and licensing, celebrated its 50th anniversary during its 2026 Symposium and Field Days, marking five decades of innovation that have helped shape the fresh produce industry. The company also honored Board Chairman, David Marguleas, for his 40 years of leadership and contributions to Sun World, establishing the David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund in support of UC Davis Viticulture & Enology and dedicating the David Marguleas Tasting Room at the Sun World Center for Innovation.

    Founded in 1976 by David’s father, Howard Marguleas, along with Carl Maggio and Domenick Bianco, Sun World began as a California produce marketing company, but over five decades, they have introduced the first commercialized seedless watermelon, seedless table grapes and lemons, and have become a global fruit genetics and licensing business with brands recognized in markets around the world.

    “Fifty years ago, Sun World was founded on a simple but ambitious idea: fruit can be better,” said David Marguleas. “That idea has guided the company through every stage of its evolution, from early product introductions to the genetics, brands and global connections that define Sun World today. This anniversary is a celebration of the people who built that foundation and the opportunity we have to carry it forward.”

    More than 450 growers, licensees, marketers, retailers, researchers and industry leaders gathered for the company’s Symposium and Field Days, where attendees explored the next generation of Sun World innovation and the future of fresh produce. The anniversary celebration also brought former breeders to the stage alongside Marguleas, recognizing the scientific talent, shared expertise and long-standing relationships that have shaped Sun World’s programs across generations.

    Marguleas joined Sun World in 1986 and held leadership roles across the company for four decades. He became president and CEO in 2019 and assumed the role of executive chair in January 2025. During his tenure, Sun World evolved from a diversified produce marketing company into a global fruit variety development and licensing business, expanding its presence in key growing regions and building a broader portfolio of proprietary fruit offerings.

    The David Marguleas Endowed Research Fund will provide support for UC Davis students, faculty and researchers whose work advances California’s grape industry, while fostering stronger connections among research, education, and the industry. The David Marguleas Tasting Room dedication recognizes his vision, leadership and lasting impact on Sun World’s culture of discovery, collaboration and innovation. This will be a dedicated space where Sun World teams and guests can evaluate fruit, exchange perspectives and continue developing new consumer experiences.

    “David’s deep industry knowledge and commitment to discovery have helped shape who we are today,” said Bernardo Calvo, president and chief executive officer at Sun World International. “He has helped set a standard for how Sun World approaches innovation: stay curious, bring the right people together and keep raising the bar for what fresh produce can deliver. The research fund and tasting room reflect that legacy while creating spaces and opportunities that will help inspire the next generation.”

    Marguleas influence extends beyond the company’s business evolution. He has championed the relationships that link breeding and research with growers, licensees, marketers and retailers, helping Sun World build programs around both commercial performance and the consumer experience.

    “Sun World’s story has been written by people willing to ask what can be improved and then work together to make it happen,” said Marguleas. “I am deeply honored by these recognitions, and grateful to the many colleagues, growers, researchers and industry leaders who have contributed to the company’s success over the past 50 years.”

    — Story contributed by Sun World International

  • LA Times Report Highlights Corruption in Mexico’s Avocado Region

    The California Avocado Commission said a new Los Angeles Times report detailing pervasive violence and intimidation in Mexico’s major avocado-producing region underscores the urgent need for USMCA import limits on Mexican avocados to protect US growers, safeguard the U.S. food supply and prevent criminal organizations from destroying a vitally important sector of American agriculture.

    The Times report, “Avocados were a lifeline — and then a bitter fruit,” chronicles the experience of families in San Ángel Zurumucapio, Michoacán, where avocado production brought new economic opportunity but where growers have also faced extortion, kidnappings and violence. Residents ultimately organized armed self-defense groups to protect their community.

    “The human toll described by the Los Angeles Times is heartbreaking, and Mexican farmers being threatened, extorted, or caught in cartel violence deserve our sympathy and support. California growers should not have to compete against a Mexican avocado supply chain exploited by cartels that can distort markets and undermine U.S. production,” said Ken Melban, president of the California Avocado Commission. “When criminal organizations can extort growers and influence the supply chain, American farmers are left competing in a market shaped by forces far outside normal agricultural competition. That’s why CAC is calling for a seasonal TRQ, to keep trade open while protecting American growers from market-disrupting import surges during our harvest season.”

    — Story contributed by the California Avocado Commission 

  • Huanglongbing Quarantine Boundary Expands in Riverside, SD Counties

    Effective September 11, 2026, the Department is expanding the citrus greening disease boundary in the Murrieta area of Riverside County and into San Diego County (grids 484, 499, and 510). A map of the expanded boundary can be found at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/hlb/regulation.html. 

    Also effective September 11, 2026, the Department is expanding the Asian Citrus Psyllid Bulk Citrus Regional Quarantine Zone 6 in these areas to reflect the HLB quarantine boundary expansion. A map of the expanded boundary can be found at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/acp/regulation.html.

    Regulated articles and conditions for intrastate movement under the quarantine can be found at Title 3 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) section 3435 & 3439. Pursuant to 3 CCR § 3435 & 3439, any interested party or local entity may appeal a quarantine area designation. 

    Process to Appeal the Expanded Boundary 

    The appeal must be submitted to the Department in writing and supported by clear and convincing evidence. The appeal must be filed no later than ten (10) working days from the date of this notification. During the pending of the appeal, the designated quarantine boundary under appeal shall remain in effect. 

    Mail Appeals to: CDFA – Citrus Division 1220 N Street Sacramento, CA 95814 

    Electronic Notification of Boundary Changes 

    California Code of Regulation allows interested parties to be notified of quarantine area boundary changes, as well as the opportunity to submit quarantine boundary appeals. If interested in receiving notifications, please sign up for regulatory updates through the email notification at: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/CADFA/subscriber/new 

    For questions regarding the regulations or map, please email Raymond Niem (Raymond.Niem@cdfa.ca.gov) or call 916-274-6300. — Story contributed by the California Department of Food and Ag

  • Prune Board Looks to Seize on Good Harvest

    Prune growers enjoyed a more sizable harvest than last year, with excellent quality despite the early start. It now comes down to getting the word out about buying and consuming California prunes. Kiaran Locy from the California Prune Board spoke with Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network to discuss efforts to promote and market their crop. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.

  • Good Harvest Helps California Pear Growers Compete

    Pear growers enjoyed an good crop this year, both in size and quantity. Demand for California pears remains strong, but imports from Argentina could pose challenges for growers. Chris Zanobini from the California Pear Advisory Board Spoke to Matthew Malcolm with California Ag Network to discuss the latest in the pear industry. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.

  • APHIS Expands the Citrus Greening (Huanglongbing) Quarantined Area in California

    The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), in cooperation with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), is expanding the citrus greening (Huanglongbing; HLB) quarantined area in California. APHIS is adding one square mile to the Santa Paula quarantined area in Ventura County, which impacts 151.7 acres of commercial citrus. APHIS is adding 10 square miles to the quarantined area in Riverside and San Diego Counties, which impacts 121.5 acres of commercial citrus. This measure parallels the intrastate quarantine that CDFA established on July 15, 2026. APHIS is taking this action because plant tissue samples from residential properties tested positive for Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, the causal agent of HLB.

    APHIS is applying safeguarding measures outlined in 7 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 301.76 through 301.76-11 and associated Federal Orders that govern interstate movement of regulated articles from the quarantined areas. This action helps prevent HLB from spreading to areas that are not currently infested.

    For updated maps and details, visit the APHIS Citrus Greening and Asian Citrus Psyllid webpage. APHIS will also publish a notice of this change in the “Federal Register.”

    For additional information contact Abby R. Stilwell at 919-323-6296 or abby.r.stilwell@usda.gov

    — Story contributed by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

  • This Week In Ag – September 9

    From new leadership in California wine to an expanding citrus quarantine, several developments are making news across California agriculture this week.

    Here are five stories to know in this week’s edition of This Week in Ag.

    The Wonderful Company Names Chris Avery President of Wine

    The Wonderful Company has named Chris Avery president of its wine business, effective Oct. 5.

    Avery currently serves as CEO of Shafer Vineyards and brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the luxury wine industry. In his new position, he will oversee JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Landmark Vineyards and Lewis Cellars.

    Throughout his career, Avery has also held senior positions at Darioush, DAOU Family Estates, Patrimony Estate, Opus One and Jordan Vineyard & Winery.

    His experience includes operations, global sales and distribution, marketing, hospitality and direct-to-consumer business.

    CAWG Launches Merchandise for California Wine Month

    September is California Wine Month, and the California Association of Winegrape Growers is giving supporters a new way to celebrate.

    CAWG launched a collection of California wine merchandise designed to promote the state’s wine and recognize the growers and communities behind the industry.

    Proceeds from the collection will support CAWG’s ongoing advocacy efforts for California winegrape growers.

    California Wine Month has been celebrated since 2004 and recognizes the state’s wines, winegrowing regions and the people behind them.

    Almond Industry Award Nominations Open

    The Almond Board of California is accepting nominations for two awards recognizing contributions to the California almond industry.

    The Almond Achievement Award recognizes an industry member who has made a lasting impact through long-term service and commitment to California almonds.

    The Almond Technical Achievement Award focuses on contributions through research, innovation or helping the industry adopt practices that benefit growers and the broader almond sector.

    Nominations for the 2026 awards are due Oct. 9, with the recipients scheduled to be announced during The Almond Conference in December.

    In 2025, Ross Blackburn received the Almond Achievement Award, while Christine Gemperle received the Almond Technical Achievement Award.

    HLB Quarantine Expands in California

    Federal and state officials are expanding quarantined areas for Huanglongbing, or HLB, in parts of California.

    The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is adding one square mile to the Santa Paula quarantine area in Ventura County. The expansion impacts approximately 151.7 acres of commercial citrus.

    Another 10 square miles are being added to quarantined areas in Riverside and San Diego counties, impacting approximately 121.5 acres of commercial citrus.

    The expansion follows positive tests for the bacterium that causes HLB from plant tissue collected at residential properties.

    The quarantine and associated movement restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of HLB spreading into areas that are not currently infested.

    Western United Dairies Pursues Funding for Tule Subbasin Farmers

    Western United Dairies is pursuing additional federal conservation funding that could benefit farmers and agricultural land in the Tule Subbasin.

    The organization submitted two proposals to USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

    The proposals build on existing water conservation efforts and programs such as LandFlex, with the goal of bringing additional resources to dairy farmers and agricultural operations in the region.

    Water availability and groundwater sustainability remain significant issues for agricultural operations throughout the Central Valley, making programs that support conservation and water management increasingly important for producers.

    Stay Connected with California Ag Network

    From wine and almonds to citrus, dairy and water, This Week in Ag brings together five stories impacting California agriculture each week.

    For more news impacting the California ag industry, follow California Ag Network.

  • Cherry Growers Have Down Year in 2026

    It was a rough year for cherry growers. High temperatures in March caused bloom to occur weeks earlier than normal and in a shortened window, leading to inadequate pollination that slashed the crop to half its normal size. Chris Zanobini, executive director for the California Cherry Board, spoke to Matthew Malcolm with California Fruit & Vegetable about the harvest. Watch this quick video and learn more in California Fruit & Vegetable Magazine.