SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (RFD News) — South Korea fully allocated its 2026 tariff-rate quota for U.S. oranges, preserving a duty-free import window that supports market access for American citrus growers. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service says the 3,782-metric-ton quota was assigned to 98 bidders on August 28.
The quota covers shipments from September 1, 2026, through February 28, 2028. U.S. oranges entering within the quota during Korea’s September-through-February period are duty-free, while out-of-quota shipments face a 50 percent tariff.
From March through August, U.S. oranges enter South Korea duty-free under the trade agreement’s seasonal tariff schedule. The in-season quota has increased gradually under the agreement, expanding access during Korea’s higher-tariff months.
Demand was much weaker for another specialty crop. USDA says a September 4 auction for South Korea’s ginseng tariff-rate quota received no bids.
The orange allocation gives U.S. citrus exporters another year of protected duty-free access during Korea’s restricted season. Producers and shippers will now watch how quickly the quota is used and how Korean demand develops.
