an and Chinese government officials, local importers, distributors and retailers gathered to celebrate the arrival of the world’s sweetest oranges in China late last week.The Chinese market is a relatively new export destination for Australian oranges, but trade has grown rapidly due to a strong demand from Chinese consumers who are becoming more health conscious.
Exports have grown from 12 containers of oranges in 2011, to 120 containers in 2012, and 420 containers in 2013.
In the 2014 season, Citrus Australia estimates the volume could reach 1000 containers.
The quality the 2014 season is excellent, according to Citrus Australia, with high sugar content and medium acid content providing a perfect flavour balance for Chinese consumers.
Citrus Australia market development general manager Andrew Harty spoke proudly of Australian oranges.
“So why do Australian oranges taste so good? Partly, this is due to the geographical location of the orange growing regions in Australia,” Mr Harty said. “It is also partly due to the varieties of oranges that are grown by Australian farmers, which is the end result of some very careful choices over 200 years. And very importantly, it is also due to the farming practices which Australian farmers have followed for many generations.”
Mr Harty explained that an important aspect of orange farming in Australia was the widespread practice of integrated pest management (IPM).
