Fruit, edible; quinces, fresh

HS code 080840 covers the import and export of fresh quinces, a type of edible fruit. Quinces are a lesser-known member of the apple family, with a distinctive yellow color and tart, aromatic flavor. While not as widely consumed as apples or pears, quinces have a long history of culinary and medicinal use, particularly in European and Middle Eastern cuisines. The global trade in fresh quinces plays a vital role in making this unique fruit available to consumers worldwide, contributing to the diversity of the international food market.

Quinces are typically harvested in the autumn months, when the fruit reaches maturity and develops its characteristic yellow hue. After harvesting, the quinces are carefully sorted, graded, and packaged for distribution. Depending on the region, quinces may be grown using traditional orchard methods or more intensive agricultural techniques. Proper handling and storage are crucial to maintain the fruit's quality and freshness during transportation and distribution.

The production of fresh quinces requires access to suitable growing regions with the right climate and soil conditions. Key inputs include fertile agricultural land, water for irrigation, and agricultural machinery for planting, harvesting, and processing. Quinces also require specialized knowledge and expertise in orchard management and post-harvest handling to ensure the fruit meets quality standards for international trade.

Fresh quinces produced under HS code 080840 are primarily destined for the consumer market, where they are used in a variety of culinary applications, such as jams, jellies, and baked goods. The output of this industry may also be consumed by manufacturers of 200799 Jams, fruit jellies, marmalades, fruit or nut purée and fruit or nut pastes, obtained by cooking or 200600 Vegetables, fruit, nuts, fruit-peel and other parts of plants, preserved by sugar (drained, glacé or crystallized.