Florida Citrus Industry Gets $140 Million Boost

Florida’s citrus industry is getting a major boost in the new state budget. Governor Ron DeSantis has signed SB 2500, the General Appropriations Act, which includes $139,673,565 to revitalize the industry.

Matt Joyner, executive vice president and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, said the investment “brings renewed hope to the industry. Florida's citrus growers are incredibly grateful to Governor DeSantis for his support, signaling his recognition of the industry's promising research and commitment to building a brighter future for the state's signature crop.”

Joyner also emphasized, “Research is more critical for the industry than ever before.” The funding will advance citrus research, support field trials of promising treatments and therapies, and help plant new disease-tolerant varieties.

Highlights of the budget include $104.5 million for the CRAFT Foundation and CRDF, $10 million for packing equipment upgrades, and $10 million for marketing. Additional funding supports citrus health response, nursery expansion, inspection support, and the development of new varieties—all part of efforts to accelerate the industry's comeback.