As of December 6, a total of 22,560 metric ton of oranges have been auctioned in the city of Gelephu, in Bhutan. The highest price was recorded at 9 Nu (12 eurocents) apiece this year, despite the mediocre quality as described by officials of the Food Corporation of Bhutan Ltd.
On the auction, Bhutanese exporters and Indian bidders are in stiff competition because of the low production this year. The average rate has remained at 32.60 Nu per kilogram. Oranges from the six dzongkhags (districts) of Tsirang, Dagana, Wangdue, Punakha, Zhemgang and Sarpang are brought to the Gelephu auction yard.
According to kuenselonline, FCBL officials said it is clear this year’s production is less. However, the mandarin season has just begun, but they will not comment on the production yet.
