As the pomelo season concludes in Pinghe county, a festive atmosphere sets in, marking a moment of reprieve for locals after a bustling harvest period. Reviewing the achievements of the past year, China Customs’ 2023 figures reveal a notable upswing in pomelo exports, particularly to the Netherlands.
The data points to a significant increase of over 20% in volume compared to the previous year, accompanied by a corresponding rise of over 30% in export value. This marks the third consecutive year of sustained growth since 2021, underscoring the resilience of China’s pomelo industry.
Industry insiders attribute this surge primarily to a reduction in shipping costs. Despite facing challenges such as a delayed start for pomelo harvesting, escalating labor costs, and a reduced yield rate for medium-sized pomelos destined for Europe, the industry persevered. Increased rainfall from April to August led to a doubled market buying price for medium-sized pomelos. However, the notable decrease in shipping costs emerged as a pivotal factor, encouraging exporters to actively explore opportunities in the European market.
According to experts, these proactive measures, securing sources with prompt professional judgment, allowed the industry to outpace overall growth. Fluctuations in the market, including the shortage of medium-sized pomelos, were addressed with foresight. The plummeting shipping costs from Xiamen to Rotterdam, dropping from USD 4,200 per container in September 2022 to USD 950 per container in September 2023, played a significant role in this success.
In 2020, China exported 83,913 tons of pomelos to the Netherlands, but this figure experienced a significant decline, nearly halving in the subsequent year. Industry experts emphasize that these fluctuations are primarily influenced by demand-side factors, especially the challenges posed by shipping costs. The steady recovery in pomelo exports to the Netherlands underscores the resilience of the industry and the adaptability of exporters in navigating challenges for sustained growth. With the achievements of 2023 as a foundation, the Chinese pomelo market is well-positioned for continued success.