Quality improves to enhance consumer experience and meet rising expectations
China’s 2026 pomelo export season has begun, with the new crop entering international markets. Alongside stable supply prospects, the industry has placed renewed emphasis on consumer-oriented quality standards, moving beyond traditional measures such as fruit size and appearance to attributes that enhance eating experience, including sweetness, peel thickness, and consistency.
Early shipments have departed from Hainan and Yunnan, where favorable climate conditions allow earlier maturity and market entry. Fujian is China’s major pomelo producing region and will see increased market supply from August to September, complementing the South African season and supporting stable availability in global markets.
“Weather conditions have supported this season’s crop development, with good flowering and fruit setting,” according to one orchard monitoring specialist. “However, lower prices last year led some growers to reduce investment in orchard management. While early and mid-season production is expected to remain similar to last year, it may decline by 20-30 per cent later in the season.”
After a production decline in 2024 due to El Niño, China’s pomelo exports recovered in 2025. However, higher export volumes have not fully translated into price recovery.
China Customs data shows that exports to the Netherlands reached around 61,000 tonnes in 2025, with an average price of US$0.6/kg, compared with around US$0.8/kg in previous years. Industry insiders expect prices to start the new season 10-20 per cent lower year on year, remain stable mid-season, and potentially rise later as supply tightens.
Price pressure has further highlighted differences in quality and orchard management across China’s pomelo industry. Lan Bilong, general manager of Onedayone Southern China, said growers with stronger management practices are better able to manage risks and maintain quality through continued investment.
“Some growers without systematic management and market awareness struggle to align production with demand. When returns decline, reduced investment can eventually affect fruit quality and competitiveness,” he said.
In response to industry changes, exporters are strengthening long-term partnerships with growers.
“We have worked closely with local farmers for years, providing support in cultivation practices, pesticide use, and orchard management. This year, enhanced field management, technical services, and closer grower cooperation have contributed to better fruit appearance and quality,” said Lan.
“Managing the entire growing cycle enables production areas to deliver pomelos that better meet overseas market requirements while supporting stable grower returns and sustainable cooperation.”
Consumer preferences are also driving improvements in quality standards.
“Beyond size and appearance, we now focus more on indicators such as peel thickness and sweetness to improve product consistency. Initial market testing has received positive feedback, and we will continue applying these standards,” Lan added.
With supply chain improvements, Chinese pomelos are strengthening their presence in international markets. Exports to the UAE have grown for four consecutive years, while expanding fruit and vegetable channels continue to create opportunities in the Middle East.
“Although geopolitical factors continue to challenge global logistics, we are improving supply chain efficiency and logistics planning to reduce their impact on market supply,” said Lan. “We remain confident in the long-term potential of the Middle East market.”
