South Korea has fully allocated its 2026 tariff-rate quota for US oranges, preserving a duty-free window for American citrus during the months when Korea otherwise charges a 50% tariff, according to USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service.

The quota of 3,782 metric tons was assigned to 98 bidders on 28 August and covers shipments from 1 September 2026 through 28 February 2028. US oranges entering within the quota during Korea's September-to-February season pay no duty, while shipments outside it face the 50% tariff.

From March to August, US oranges already enter South Korea duty-free under the trade agreement's seasonal tariff schedule, and the in-season quota has been widened gradually under the agreement.

Demand was weaker for another specialty crop: USDA said a 4 September auction for South Korea's ginseng tariff-rate quota received no bids.

The allocation gives US citrus exporters another year of protected duty-free access during Korea's restricted season; growers and shippers will now watch how quickly the quota is used and how Korean demand develops. The report is by Tony St. James.

Source: All Ag News