Meizhou, Guangdong's largest pomelo-producing region, is turning its golden fruit into a billion-yuan industry.
With approximately 44,000 hectares of cultivated land and an annual output of 1.295 million tons, Meizhou accounts for 90 percent of Guangdong's pomelo production and one-fifth of China's total output. This means that one out of every five pomelos in China comes from Meizhou. The industry's brand value has reached 22.75 billion yuan, ranking first among Guangdong's regional public brands.
This success stems from a combination of natural advantages and scientific management. Located along the Tropic of Cancer, Meizhou benefits from abundant sunshine and selenium-rich soil. Farmers have adopted precision farming techniques, including soil testing, formula fertilization and drone-based pest control, which have improved both yield and product quality.
In one demonstration orchard, smart agriculture platforms enable farmers to monitor soil conditions, temperature and humidity through smartphones. Meanwhile, sugar content testing ensures that only premium-quality fruit reaches the market.
Quality control is strictly enforced throughout the entire process, from planting to sale. The city has established production standards, grading systems and the industry principle of "no harvest before ripeness, no sale of unripe fruit." These measures have significantly boosted both domestic and international sales.
Major e-commerce platforms and livestreaming influencers have helped bring millions of pomelos to online markets, with some orchards expanding their reach to exports in the US, Europe, and New Zealand. In 2025, pomelo exports reached 2,605.86 tons, marking a year-on-year increase of 69.1 percent.
Through industrial upgrading, brand building and export expansion, Meizhou is demonstrating that high-quality fruit can truly sweeten farmers' lives. The industry is now setting its sights on becoming a 100-billion-yuan powerhouse.
Author | Jiang Chang
Photo | Nanfang Plus
