**Citrus Shipment Delayed Due to Heat and Rain**
Amid extreme heat and heavy rain, the shipment of Jeju citrus has been somewhat delayed. However, thanks to revisions in local regulations, the shipment volume is expected to increase, though prices are likely to be slightly lower compared to last year. Kim Sang-yeop, the Head of Citrus Distribution in Jeju, stated that despite the delayed shipping schedule due to the heat, the shipment volume has slightly increased, and prices are projected to be slightly lower than last year.
On the 14th, a visit was made to the Namwon Citrus Distribution Center, Jeju’s largest citrus production area in Seogwipo. The center, equipped with automatic sorting lines using non-destructive testing technology and cold storage, ensures that high-quality citrus fruits are shipped after thorough sorting and standardization. The process includes initial inspections for sugar and acid content, followed by washing, drying, and further sorting based on size and quality.
Despite the advanced systems, only about 56 tons were sorted that day, a result of the delayed harvest season caused by this year’s extreme weather. According to Hyun Jong-ho, manager of the Namwon Agricultural Cooperative, the current period marks the transition from early to mid-season citrus shipments, but volumes are not yet on par with previous years.
Jeju officials reported that the average temperature from July to September was higher than the previous year, leading to delayed fruit coloring. Consequently, a regulatory amendment in October increased the shipment volume to 408,000 tons, compared to 398,000 tons in 2023.
**2024 Jeju International Citrus Expo**
Coinciding with the citrus shipment period, Jeju is hosting the 2024 Jeju International Citrus Expo from November 13–19, featuring various events like buyer consultations and live commerce sessions. The annual expo has been running for 11 years, promoting Jeju citrus and facilitating business connections.
Expo Chairman Koh Byung-ki emphasized the economic impact of citrus on Jeju’s economy and the indirect and direct economic ripple effect estimated at over 100 billion won annually.
**Addressing Climate Change With Subtropical Crops**
As climate change impacts traditional farming practices, the Rural Development Administration is exploring subtropical crops such as papaya and dragon fruit at its Adaptation Research Center. This initiative targets new demand creation and climate adaptation strategies.
The research center reports a significant rise in the demand and import of subtropical fruits, highlighting the potential of subtropical crop cultivation as an essential component of Korea’s agricultural strategy in response to climate change. The center has identified 17 promising subtropical crops for domestic cultivation, including mango, olive, passion fruit, and avocado, and is actively involved in developing suitable cultivation practices.
In summary, while extreme weather has delayed the citrus season, Jeju is adapting through regulatory changes and by exploring alternative crops like papaya and dragon fruit. The island’s strategic initiatives aim to sustain and enhance its agricultural output amidst evolving climatic conditions.