Retailers have said that those who are celebrating the Lunar New Year soon will be able to purchase better quality mandarin oranges at a more affordable price this year. This is due to the bumper crop season that orchards in China enjoyed following favourable weather conditions, leading to a 20% increase in yield.

“With the 20% higher yield, prices are better compared with 2023. Larger sizes are 10% to 15% cheaper, on average, while the price of smaller ones sees a 5% to 10% drop. The M and L sizes collectively contribute to 60% of the total production,” said the director of Sunshine Wholesale Mart Sdn Bhd, Yee Kam Ming.

More specifically, Yee shared that small and medium mandarins are priced this year at RM17.58 and RM19.38 per box, respectively. Meanwhile, large oranges cost RM22.38 per box, whereas extra-large mandarins are priced at RM24.88 per box.

“Across all sizes, there are noticeable price drops with the biggest observed in the extra-large mandarins, declining by 37%. The price of M mandarins has gone down by 17%, while L size is cheaper by 25%. The smallest decrease is the S-size at only 1% lower,” Yee further said, adding that the fruits are also larger and better in flavour this year.

Additionally, Yee commented that Malaysia is the second largest importer of mandarin oranges in Southeast Asia, behind only Indonesia. “We expect demand to be high as more people will be willing to spend on these oranges, which are also good gifts for friends and relatives. There will be more community events as well, increasing the demand,” he said.

This year, the Chinese community in Malaysia is set to celebrate the Lunar New Year on 10 February. Mandarin oranges, also known as kam or lo kam, are considered to be a must-have during the celebration due to its association with wealth and prosperity.

(Source: The Star)

• TAGS:
• Chinese New Year
• Chinese New Year 2024
• Mandarin Orange
• Sunshine Wholesale Mart Sdn Bhd
• Yee Kam Ming