Tangerines from Hubei and Hunan, China are in the early stages of their export season, which started about a month later this year compared to previous years.
"Thanks to the characteristics and ripeness of local tangerines, they store well and can endure long-distance transport. The ripening process in Hubei and Hunan is typically earlier than in other regions, so our citrus exports generally begin here before gradually moving to other production areas," explained Mr. Zhu Yunquan, head of Liaoning Zhongshang International Trade Co., Ltd.
"This year, Hubei and Hunan are experiencing an 'off-year' for tangerines, with production down by 30%-40% compared to previous years due to weather conditions. The current purchase price is high, around ￥4-4.4/kg, which is 15%-20% higher than the same period in previous years. Consequently, export prices have also risen. The peak harvest season is expected to start next month."
Due to weather impacts, the proportion of smaller-sized fruit is higher this season. In the export market, Southeast Asia and Central Asia tend to prefer smaller fruits, while the Russian market prefers larger ones. Export demand is currently stable, with significant growth in demand from Russia over the past year or two.
Discussing consumption trends in the export market, Zhu noted an improvement in overseas demand: "Our citrus fruits are directly supplied to supermarkets and wholesale markets in the destination countries. Based on my observations, the demand for high-quality fruits is strong. Since last year, there has been a noticeable shift towards small, premium packaging, which makes high-quality fruits easier to sell."
Liaoning Zhongshang International Trade Co., Ltd. exports to markets in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Russia, and Canada. Their product range includes Cambodian mangoes, Chinese citrus, grapefruit, and Vietnamese dragon fruit. "In the past two months, we have been exporting tangerines from Hunan and Hubei. By December, we will shift to exporting Guangxi Wogan oranges, honey tangerines, and Jiangxi Nanfeng tangerines," Zhu added.