Oranges

Exports of Taiwanese oranges to mainland China have stabilised prices on the island, according to officials at Taiwan’s Council of Agriculture.

Since shipments to Shanghai began in November, China has become a major market for Taiwanese oranges, which had been facing a shortage of demand in the domestic market.

Taiwan’s government purchases premium oranges for export from growers at guaranteed prices during the winter season, reported the Taiwan News.

In the past six weeks, Taiwan has sent 912 tonnes to China; six or seven containers per week, a Council of Agriculture official said.

The exports have levelled out prices during the harvest season in Taiwan, which often see a significant drop. Wholesale prices have increased from an average NT$11 (US$0.35) to NT$13 (US$0.41) per kg in the past few weeks.