Changshan county in Quzhou, Zhejiang province has seen a remarkable resurgence in its citrus industry in recent years, particularly with the Huyou tangelo, a local specialty that is a citrus hybrid combining sour orange and pomelo.

The total output value of Changshan's entire citrus industry chain surged from 1.87 billion yuan ($270.8 million) in 2020 to 7.40 billion yuan in 2025.

The comprehensive processing of the Huyou tangelo has played a crucial role in this turnaround. Local enterprises, such as Zhejiang Yuzu Valley Holdings and Zhejiang Aijia Fruit and Vegetable Development, have driven innovation, developing 108 different products ranging from fresh juices to high-end beverages. 

Yuzu Valley's Yuzu Juice, a blend of the Huyou tangelo and the Yuzu citrus fruit, has quickly gained popularity nationwide due to its unique flavor.

Changshan Huyou fruits hang on the branches. [Photo/WeChat account: changshanfabu]

The Changshan Huyou Research Institute has been pivotal in improving fruit quality and yield, distributing over 100,000 high-quality seedlings to farmers. Collaboration with Zhejiang University has further enhanced agricultural practices, reducing research costs and benefiting local growers.

Changshan's citrus industry has also contributed to rural prosperity, with innovative models like "Common Prosperity Orchards" boosting local economic growth and increasing farmers' incomes.

As a result, the county's per capita disposable income rose to 32,900 yuan in 2025, supported by a thriving citrus industry that employed over 100,000 people and generated more than 1.5 billion yuan in additional income last year.