The import tariff on United States mandarin oranges has been reduced from 35% to 10% according to the U.S.-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), raising concerns about potential pressure on domestically grown produce. 

The Agriculture Ministry provided a written explanation, clarifying that “mandarin oranges” mainly refers to ponkan oranges and other hybrid citrus varieties, including tangerines. Murcott, they said, is not included.

Their report states that according to customs statistics, Taiwan’s average annual import volume of “other mandarin oranges” over the past five years was 6,081 metric tons, of which 1,115 metric tons were imported from the U.S. The imported U.S. mandarin oranges account for around 1% of Taiwan’s overall consumption.

The ministry said most U.S. imports arrive between March and May, outside Taiwan’s peak citrus harvest season, and are positioned as a short-term supplement rather than a direct competitor to local fruit.

Price differences further reduce competitive pressure, the ministry said. Imported U.S. mandarins currently cost about NT$94 (US$2.97) per kilogram, including tariffs, and would still be around NT$77 (US$2.43) after the reduction, while locally grown ponkan costs roughly NT$45 (US$1.42).

Officials said domestic citrus retains advantages in freshness, flavor, and supply stability, and that consumers in Taiwan tend to favor seasonal local fruit. U.S. imports also face competition from other suppliers such as South Africa and Australia.

The ministry added that the trade agreement has yet to be reviewed by the Legislature, meaning the current 35% tariff remains in place. Authorities said they will continue promoting traceability systems, domestic marketing, and production clusters to strengthen the competitiveness of Taiwan’s citrus sector and support farmers’ incomes.