Taiwan’s ‘King Of Citrus’ Returns To Malaysia In Limited Release

KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 (Bernama) -- Taichung Murcott oranges, widely known as the ‘King of Citrus’ from Taiwan, have returned to Malaysia with limited availability this season due to lower production.

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia’s Economic Division director James Chang said the fruit has steadily gained recognition among Malaysian consumers in recent years.

“However, climate fluctuations and reduced rainfall last year have affected overall yield, with only one container exported to Malaysia this year,” he said in a statement today.

To showcase the fruit’s versatility, the statement said a first-time collaboration with Malaysian brand The Carpenter’s Daughter, through its dessert arm Rach Dessert & Ice Cream, has introduced a limited-edition, all-natural Murcott orange ice cream.

Recognised for their vibrant orange-red hue, thin and easy-to-peel skin, and juicy flesh, Taichung Murcott oranges offer a well-balanced sweet-and-tangy flavour.

According to the statement, Taichung is Taiwan's leading production area for Murcott oranges, with approximately 597 hectares under cultivation and annual output exceeding 10,000 tonnes.

“The fruit's quality is attributed to the region's distinct day-night temperature variation, fertile river systems, and meticulous farming practices.

“In recent years, exports have expanded to markets including Brunei, Malaysia, Canada and Singapore,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, Rach Dessert & Ice Cream’s co-founder Rachel Tan said she was immediately drawn to the fruit's vibrant orange-red colour upon first encounter.

She noted that much of its colour and aroma comes from the peel, giving it a more pronounced fragrance than typical citrus.

“The fruit is juicy, firm to the touch and well-balanced in flavour, with a naturally smooth texture due to its low fibre content. When made into ice cream, it delivers a light, refreshing profile without excessive acidity,” she said.

Shigang District Farmers' Association of Taichung City’s Marketing Department Director Fu Yu-Chin shared that consumers can select quality Murcott oranges by looking for slightly green stems as a sign of freshness, smooth skin for higher sweetness, and a firm, well-rounded shape with noticeable weight.

Taichung Murcott oranges are now available across multiple retail channels in Malaysia, including AEON supermarkets, Star Grocer, and Whole Foods outlets under Khaishen Trading.

-- BERNAMA