oranges

" China's MY 2004/05 citrus production is forecast between 13-14 MMT. Total acreage remains stable, with orange area growing slightly and tangerine area declining. Orange production occupies an increasing share of total citrus production in China. In the next few years, citrus production will likely stabilize at current levels while quality improves. Government support focuses on technical extension and market information but there is no significant investment. Demand for high quality fruit will outpace production over the short to medium run leading to fresh orange and other citrus import growth. During the next five to ten years, post expects China's orange yields to improve while total acreage remains stable. Despite policy initiatives by the Ministry of Agriculture, citrus production increases will not meet China's increasing consumer demand for the foreseeable future. China's citrus imports increased to $108 million due to the demand for fresh oranges and frozen orange juice. Exports increased to $224 million on the strength of China's canned mandarin production. "