Mandarin and Clementine
Mandarin and clementine are citrus fruits classified as mandarins, including clementines, that are consumed fresh or dried. They are perishable produce typically stored chilled to preserve quality.
Prices, specifications and international trade for mandarin and clementine under HS 080521.
Mandarin and Clementine Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Mandarin and clementine is quoted in USD/t at CHN. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
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Türkiye led reported mandarin and clementine exports in 2025, at $892M.
Compare mandarin and clementine exporting countriesMandarin and Clementine Specifications and Quality
Mandarin and clementine grading factors include Color and appearance, Blemish and scarring, and Sugar-to-acid ratio.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for mandarin and clementine considers Color and appearance, Blemish and scarring, and Sugar-to-acid ratio.
- Color and appearance
Bright, uniform orange color and a clean, glossy skin indicate optimal ripeness and appeal to retail consumers, influencing purchase decisions.
- Blemish and scarring
Surface blemishes such as scratches, sunburn, or scarring affect visual quality and may be rejected for premium fresh markets, though minor imperfections might be acceptable for processing.
- Sugar-to-acid ratio
The balance between sweetness and acidity defines the flavor experience; a higher ratio yields a sweeter taste that is preferred for fresh eating.
- Firmness and weight
Firm, heavy fruits indicate good internal juice content and texture, while soft or light fruits suggest over-maturity or dehydration.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for mandarin and clementine include Decay and mold, Puffiness, and Green or immature peel.
- Decay and mold
Mold growth or soft rot appears as fuzzy or dark patches, often starting at the stem end, causing rapid spoilage and contaminating neighboring fruit.
- Puffiness
The peel separates from the segments, giving a puffy appearance and often a dry, mealy texture, reducing eating quality.
- Green or immature peel
Fruits with green patches are considered under-ripe, may have undesirable flavor, and are typically culled for fresh market.
Mandarin and Clementine Facts and HS Code
Mandarin and clementine belongs to fresh fruit within produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients. Its customs classification covers HS 080521.
Mandarin and Clementine HS Code
| Also known as | tangerines, satsumas |
|---|---|
| Product type | Raw |
| Form | Fresh |
| Position in the chain | Primary |
| Category | Fresh fruit — Produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients |
| HS codes | 080521 |
| HS6 description | Fruit, edible; mandarins (including tangerines and satsumas), fresh or dried |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | CHN |
Production & Handling
Mandarin and clementine storage guidance: Store mandarins and clementines under refrigerated conditions that slow respiration and water loss, which keeps the peel firm and preserves flavor. They should be kept away from ethylene producers to avoid accelerated senescence and off-flavors.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | High |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Chilled |
| Storage conditions | Store mandarins and clementines under refrigerated conditions that slow respiration and water loss, which keeps the peel firm and preserves flavor. They should be kept away from ethylene producers to avoid accelerated senescence and off-flavors. |
| Production methods | Farmed |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical mandarin and clementine packaging includes Corrugated fiberboard cartons, Plastic crates, and Mesh bags.
- Corrugated fiberboard cartons
Common for shipping to retail distribution centers, these provide stackability, ventilation, and protection against mechanical damage during handling.
- Plastic crates
Reusable crates are used for field-to-packinghouse transport and sometimes for wholesale supply, offering strength and ease of cleaning.
- Mesh bags
Used for retail display and consumer convenience, mesh bags allow visibility and airflow while keeping portions together.
Uses & Risks
Mandarin and clementine is used in Fresh consumption, Juice and beverages, and Culinary ingredient.
End Uses
- Fresh consumption
Eaten as a snack, often peeled by hand, and valued for the easy removal of skin and segments.
- Juice and beverages
Pressed to extract juice, which can be consumed fresh or used as an ingredient in juice blends and cocktails.
- Culinary ingredient
Segments add sweet citrus notes to salads, desserts and baked goods; zest is used for flavoring.
- Dried and candied peel
The peel is candied for confections or dried for spice blends and herbal preparations.
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Fresh produce retail, Foodservice, Beverage manufacturing, Confectionery and bakery, Nutraceutical and flavor extract |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Postharvest rot DiseaseHigh Fungal pathogens such as Penicillium can cause blue or green mold after harvest, leading to rapid decay and spread. | Minimize wounds during handling, apply registered fungicides, and maintain strict cold chain integrity. |
Pesticide residue violation Food safetyHigh Improperly managed pesticide applications may leave residues above legal limits, causing rejection or health concerns. | Implement pre-harvest intervals, use approved products, and test lots according to market requirements. |
Freeze damage in field ClimateMedium Frost can damage the peel and internal tissues, resulting in water-soaked areas, off-flavors and early decay. | Monitor weather, harvest before predicted freezes, and use wind machines or irrigation as protective measures. |
Mandarin and Clementine Questions
- What distinguishes a mandarin from an orange?
- Mandarins are generally smaller, have a looser rind and a sweeter, less acidic flavor than most oranges. They are also easier to peel and segment by hand.
- Are clementines and mandarins the same?
- Clementines are a specific type of mandarin, characterized by being seedless and especially easy to peel. Mandarins is a broader category that includes tangerines, satsumas and other hybrids.
- What does puffy peel indicate?
- Puffy peel, where the rind separates from the fruit flesh, often indicates that the fruit is past its prime or was stored improperly. It usually leads to a dry, mealy texture and lower eating quality.
- How should mandarins be stored at home?
- Store them in the refrigerator crisper drawer to maintain moisture and slow decay. They can be kept at room temperature for a short time but will deteriorate faster.
- Why are mandarins sometimes waxed?
- A thin layer of food-grade wax replaces natural wax lost during washing, which helps retain moisture and reduce water loss. This extends shelf life and reduces shrinkage.