More fruit from Spain has been making its way to Canada, thanks to a new trade agreement that has started to make its presence felt.

The Global Economic and Trade Agreement came into effect in September last year and resulted in the elimination of 98 per cent of duties that applied to products exchanged between the EU and Canada.

According to the Spanish Federation of Associations of Producers and Exporters of Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers and Live Plants (Fepex), this meant sales of Spanish fresh fruit and vegetables enjoyed an upturn during the first five months of 2018.

Produce exports rose by 87 per cent to 34,992 tonnes, a hike of 81 per cent in value between January and May, Fruit Net reported.

Leading exports to Canada included citrus fruits, garlic, onions and peppers.

"For Fepex, the tariff disarmament applied to the EU's exports of fruit and vegetables creates new opportunities for Spanish producers," a statement from the organisation said.

Spain is currently the world's biggest exporter of oranges and mandarins, but also produces grapefruit, lemons and limes in enormous quantities.