An autumn citrus fruit, most production occurs between September and December. Ponkans are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and zinc. Traditional Chinese medical practitioners believe the peel of the ponkan to be a "cool" food, able to relieve dehydration, reduce phlegm, stimulate the lungs, assist in reducing constipation, help reduce fever, and aid digestion.

The ponkan is the gift of choice for many Taiwanese during holidays because its round shape reminds both the giver and recipient of the circle of life that encompasses one's family and community. In addition, the rich color of this festive fruit resembles the colors of royalty and golden wealth, reminding the recipient of their many blessings.

It goes without saying that the sweet taste and rich juiciness of Taiwan 's ponkans make them a premier agricultural commodity. Exported mainly to Japan , Hong Kong , and Canada , they are also very popular during Chinese New Year with Chinese or Taiwanese expatriates living abroad. This is one product that simply cannot be missed and is, without question, a welcome addition to the fruit markets of any country.

Just after harvesting, the ponkan peel contains a great deal of citric acid and chlorophyll, but after a few days in the shade, its peel will brighten and the sweetness of the fruit will rise dramatically. The mandarin orange's fruit slices are large and easily peeled, with a soft juicy flesh noted for its aromatic fragrance. Most often consumed fresh, it is also excellent when served as fresh squeezed juice, marmalade, or when the peel is dried, used as a cooking spice or for desserts.

The autumn months leading up to winter between September and December is when the main harvest season for Mandarin oranges occurs in Taiwan . Fresh green Mandarin oranges are harvested from October through until December, and can be stored and available for distribution until April.

Mandarin orange production is primarily located in Taichung , Chiayi, Miaoli, and Tainan counties of Taiwan .

Different countries have varying import quarantine laws and restrictions. Please contact your country's proper authority to find out the status and quarantine regulations for importing this product from overseas. By clarifying the complete import requirements of your country, the Taiwan Quarantine Bureau will help present a quarantine clearance certificate accordingly. For Taiwan 's authority, please contact baphiq@mail.baphiq.gov.tw