The production volume of Egyptian oranges is larger this year as a result of excellent weather conditions during the production season. The product quality is higher as well. This also means that a greater volume of top-quality Egyptian oranges is available for export to China. One Chinese importer commented on the market conditions of imported Egyptian oranges, confirming that the import volume of Egyptian oranges will certainly grow this year.
This year's Egyptian orange production season began in early January, two weeks earlier than last year. The production season is expected to last until late April or even early May. Even though the import volume of Egyptian oranges will be larger, they still have to compete with domestic oranges in the Chinese market. The supply volume of late-season oranges is particularly large. And some orange varieties have extended production seasons. In short, the Chinese market has a large supply of top-quality oranges for low prices. This is difficult to compete with, in particular because the price of imported oranges is increased by transport cost. The current wholesale price of oranges in the Chinese market is around 3.2-3.5 yuan [0.48-0.52 USD] per 0.5 kg.
The Chinese importer also mentioned that, in addition to Egyptian oranges, the market conditions for imported Indian grapes are not bad at all. Last year's Chinese grape market was not great for India, and many companies therefore stopped grape export to the Chinese market. The companies that still export grapes enjoy higher prices as a result of limited supply volume. The Indian black grape is particularly popular. The production season will likely conclude in the middle of March.