China kicks off pomelo export season as quality standards rise

China's 2026 pomelo export season is on, and the crop is readying to enter international markets. 

Alongside stable supply forecasts, the industry is placing greater emphasis on consumer-oriented quality standards, says local fresh produce grower and distributor Onedayone Group. The company says the sector is moving beyond traditional variables such as fruit size and appearance, prioritizing attributes that enhance the eating experience, such as sweetness, peel thickness, and consistency.

Early pomelo shipments come mainly from Hainan and Yunnan, where favorable climate conditions allow earlier maturity and market entry. Fujian, China’s major pomelo-producing region, will see increased market supply from August to September, complementing the South African season and driving stable availability in global markets.

“Weather conditions have supported this season’s crop development, with good flowering and fruit setting. However, lower prices last year led some growers to reduce investment in orchard management,” said an orchard monitoring specialist at Onedayone. “While early and mid-season production is expected to remain similar to last year, it may decline by 20 percent to 30 percent later in the season.”

Chinese pomelos bet on a price comeback

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. 

For example, China Customs data show that exports to the Netherlands reached around 61,000 metric tons in 2025, with an average price of $0.6 per kilo, compared with around $0.8 per kilo in previous years. 

Industry insiders expect prices to start the new season 10 percent to 20 percent lower year on year, but estimate they’ll remain stable through the 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 handle 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 explained.

In response to industry changes, exporters are strengthening long-term partnerships with growers. Lan says Onedayone has 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.

This, he adds, enables the sector to deliver pomelos that better meet overseas market requirements “while supporting stable grower returns and sustainable cooperation.”

Riding the consumer trends

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,” said Lan. “Initial market testing has received positive feedback, and we will continue applying these standards.” 

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.”

*All images courtesy of Onedayone Group.

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