As Chinese New Year 2026 approaches, you’ve probably already started seeing red boxes once again stacking up across supermarkets, wet markets and gift outlets nationwide. It’s a sure sign that Chinese New Year is just around the corner! But let’s be real, there is one question that is on everyone’s mind: “Is my wallet going to cry when I buy oranges this year?
The short answer is nope! We did the digging for you into the latest market reports and the outlook for CNY 2026 is encouraging. It looks like we can all breathe a sigh of relief! Phew!
📈 The Big Win: Better Quality, Lower Prices
After a bit of a bumpy 2025, we finally caught a break. There are two major reasons to why oranges are cheaper this year:
- The Ringgit is Flexing Hard: Since the Malaysian Ringgit has strengthened against the Renminbi (RMB), the cost of importing these babies has actually dropped significantly. This currency advantage has translated into more competitive wholesale and retail pricing for local buyers. Based on the market consensus, you won’t have to eat expensive oranges this year. Prices are stable and may soften even further as we move closer to the peak festive period in February.
- A “Bumper” Harvest: Over in China, the orange trees were very busy! They had a huge harvest and so there’s plenty of stock to go around!
💰 Price Cheat Sheet: How much will my wallet cry this year?
Breaking Down the Prices:
If you’re heading out to restock your fruit basket, here’s a quick “cheat sheet” so you know you’re getting a fair deal:
- Standard Lokam 🌟The Classique🌟 (4kg, ~24 pieces): From RM24*
- Medium-sized Lokam 💰 The Budget Pick 💰 (3.5kg, ~28 pieces): From RM16*
- Premium Gift Packs ✨ The Fancy Stuff ✨ (15 pieces): From RM25 per box*
The OG Lokam vs. The “New Favorites”
Most of us still go for the classic Lokam as it continues to dominate the CNY market with more than 1,500 containers expected to arrive in Malaysia this season alone. Its bright color, balanced sweetness and symbolic significance make it a perennial festive favorite.
The younger crowds however are moving toward the newer premium, seedless varieties that includes:
- Baba Gan (耙耙柑)
- Hong Mei Ren (红美人) / Red Beauty
These varieties are known for their exceptional sweetness, easy peeling and seedless flesh. They are definitely pricier, ranging around RM30 to RM40 for smaller 2kg box, positioning them as a premium or gift-oriented option rather than a mass-market staple. They are also famous for being incredibly sweet and easy to eat. So if you want to impress your in-laws or your grandma this year, these might be worth the splurge!
A Quick Tip for Freshness 💡
The experts say this year’s batch is particularly good because it didn’t rain much during the harvest in China. Dry weather mean the oranges are firmer fruit with lower moisture content, which means it is less likely to rot during the long boat ride over here. This also resulted in better overall fruit quality, reduced post-import wastage and longer shelf life. This means they should last longer on your table too!
But When to Buy ah? 🤔
While the first batch is already here (it arrived just in time for Winter Solstice), the huge wave of stock is expected in late January. Historically, this period offers much fresher stock with wider selection which could potentially be priced better due to higher volumes. If you’re buying in bulk for gifts, that might be the best time to strike for the freshest stock and potentially better deals.
🧧 The Bottom Line
This CNY season, the mandarin orange market is shaping up to be friendly towards both consumers and retailers. Strong supply, a better exchange rate and stable pricing should help keep the tradition of oranges on every table without breaking the bank. Whether you’re buying for family reunions, gifting to clients or just stocking up for the festive celebrations, this year’s citrus outlook is one to laugh about!
If you are sourcing mandarin oranges for Chinese New Year, our team at Hoi Yong is happy to assist.
You may visit us directly to view available varieties or contact our sales team for the latest stock updates, pricing and recommendations based on your needs.
📍 Direction to Hoi Yong Fruits Coldroom ❄️ 🍊🍎 🍇 🫐 🍓 🥑
Address:
No. 17518, Jalan 2, Kawasan Industri Taman Selayang Baru, 68100 Batu Caves.
⬇️ Please use GPS links below ⬇️
Google map:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EE6xg5YnTV8GoxcN6?g_st=iwb
Waze:
https://waze.com/ul/hw2863pq4u
📞 Call us at 016-233 1537 (Chyi) or 016-233 7595 (Max) to place an order.
*Wholesale prices are subject to change without notice to reflect current market value.
