Fruit growers in the Mexican state of Chiapas are finding increased opportunities in exporting rambutans to the U.S., newspaper El Heraldo de Chihuahua reported.

The fruit of South and Southeast Asian origin is growing in popularity in North American markets, with 150 producers benefiting in the region around Tuxtla Chico, the story reported.

Rural Producers Society rambutan growers president Andrés López Hernández, said the popularity was due to the rambutan's color and shape as an 'exotic addition', with a sweet taste and appeal for Chinese communities, the story reported.

"The rambutan is becoming more competitive. In the United States it's very sought after, and because it's grown in the Soconusco (area), it's sweeter and has a better size and quality," López Hernández was quoted as saying.

He said around 500,000 metric tons (MT) had been produced in the season to date since June, which was a 'significant' recovery from previous years when popularity was low.

Photo: www.de10.com.mx

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