Aussie Mandarins in Season with Higher Volumes to China Expected

Australian mandarins are now in season. According to a press release from Citrus Australia, Australian growers are expected to produce more than 100,000 tonnes of mandarins throughout the 2016 season.

Judith Damiani, Chief Executive Officer of Citrus Australia, said that as a result of the favorable growing conditions growers are on track this year to deliver an abundant supply of high-quality, great-tasting fruit.

The Australian mandarin season runs from April through to October with more than ten varieties available. Australian growers have high expectations for the Chinese market. “In 2016 there are 60% more citrus farms registered for export to China and we hope to increase supply this season,” Ms. Damiani told Produce Report.

In 2015, mainland China became the third-biggest export market by volume for Australian citrus fruit, up 58% from 2014 to 29,000 tonnes, with a value of 53 million AUD. 28% of the volume is mandarins, mainly the Murcott variety, which is available from June to October and at its peak harvest period in August.

According to Ms. Damiani, the 2016 Australian mandarin crop is of high quality with volumes similar to last year.

Image source: Citrus Australia