China’s insatiable demand for citrus continues as both South Africa and Australia record best ever exports to the Asian nation. In the 12 months to the end of October, China had imported over 250,000 tonnes of citrus, mostly oranges and mandarins, from Southern Hemisphere suppliers. This was a55 per cent increase over the previous year, according to China Customs data.
South Africa and Australia are the main Southern Hemisphere exporters “in season” when China’s own producers are out of season from July to November. South African exports increased 43 per cent year-on-year to 163,512 tonnes, while Australia saw even greater increases, sending 75,642 tonnes, up 70 per cent.