Citrus exports hit record high in 2025
2026-01-31 19:01:48
By Yan Wanqin
Yichang’s citrus export reached 1.09 billion yuan (US$156 million) in 2025, 14 percent higher than a year earlier and setting a new record, according to Yichang Customs. The total export volume also hit a record 194,000 tons, up 7 percent year on year.
In recent years, Yichang has actively expanded international markets for its citrus industry. The momentum is continuing ahead of the Spring Festival, driven by strong demand in Southeast Asian markets.
Yichang’s citrus export reached 1.09 billion yuan (US$156 million) in 2025, 14 percent higher than a year earlier and setting a new record, according to Yichang Customs. The total export volume also hit a record 194,000 tons, up 7 percent year on year.
In recent years, Yichang has actively expanded international markets for its citrus industry. The momentum is continuing ahead of the Spring Festival, driven by strong demand in Southeast Asian markets.
Workers pack navel oranges at Yilinghong Ecological Agriculture Development Co., Ltd. Photo by Zhou Chongyu.
A shipment of 50 tons of Zigui navel oranges departed on January 27 from Yichang Yilinghong Ecological Agriculture Development Co., Ltd. for Thailand, Malaysia, and other Southeast Asian countries.
"Currently, the Southeast Asian market shows robust demand for Yichang navel oranges. We ship 50 tons daily, yet supply still falls short,” said Wan Zhongbo, the company's sales manager. "This year, we plan to expand into new export markets, including Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan."
Zigui navel oranges are renowned for their thin, smooth peel, crisp and tender flesh, and balanced sweet-tart flavor.
To ensure fresh delivery during the peak export season, Yichang Customs has implemented expedited clearance measures, including optimized inspections and the use of remote checks. These steps have reduced average inspection times to under 30 minutes and significantly accelerated document processing.
Zhou Chongyu also contributed to this story.
