Jeju mandarin growers are facing significant difficulties this year due to a sharp drop in prices and shipment delays. In particular, the prices of major mandarin varieties such as Cheonhyehyang and Hallabong have fallen significantly compared to the previous year, causing deep concern among farmers.
A farmer in Seogwipo City expressed dissatisfaction, stating, "It's been over a month since I sent Cheonhyehyang to the Nonghyup grading center, but the grading process has not yet started." In response, Nonghyup explained, "We are adjusting shipments to ensure farmers receive fair prices." However, farmers are voicing concerns about potential fruit decay due to shipment delays and the uncertainty of shipment schedules, urging Nonghyup to actively expand sales channels.
According to the Jeju Agricultural Product Supply and Demand Management Center, the average auction price of 2024 Hallabong at nine wholesale markets as of the 22nd was 11,100 won per 3kg, a 21.4% decrease from the previous year. Similarly, the price of Cheonhyehyang fell to 13,100 won per 3kg, a 34.2% drop from last year.
In response, the Nonghyup Jeju Headquarters is implementing various events to promote mandarin consumption. With funds from the Citrus Mandatory Self-Help Fund, they will offer a 1,000 won per kg discount on mandarins sold at Hanaro Mart nationwide until April 18th. Additionally, the Nonghyup Mall is holding a special discount event for Cheonhyehyang, offering up to a 51% discount until inventory is depleted. They also plan to supply mandarins at 20% lower prices than market rates through special sales events in collaboration with major retailers such as Emart and Lotte Mart.
Furthermore, the Nonghyup Jeju Headquarters is making multifaceted efforts to expand consumption, including requesting the Ministry of National Defense to increase the use of mandarins in military meal services.
Goh Woo-il, head of the Nonghyup Jeju Headquarters, stated, "The economic downturn and increased orange imports are the main factors contributing to the sluggish consumption of Jeju mandarins. We will promptly implement consumption promotion events to stabilize mandarin inventory and prices, and support farm gate prices."
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