Last week USDA published a rule for comment allowing China citrus producers access to the U.S. market. Notwithstanding the fact that this “ask” had been lingering since 2014, the publishing of the rule initiates a process in which specific varieties of citrus could land in the domestic market this next season. Taking advantage of previously scheduled sessions in Washington, D.C., both CCM and Sunkist received assurances that the rule will not be finalized unless and until California citrus has complete access to the China market without tariffs.
Meanwhile, CCM has reviewed the document and contracted with technical folks to identify specific problems with the proposal and will comment accordingly. Comments are due by July 1.
