With a new protocol ready for re-opening Chinese market access, a Californian citrus sector representative is optimistic after two officials from the Asian country visited the state's groves and operations, led by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and industry.

"The meetings and tour with two Chinese officials went very positive from my perspective," California Citrus Mutual president Joel Nelsen told www.freshfruitportal.com in a statement.

"They visited with Growers and shippers in our major production areas and witnessed how we envision implementing the proposed protocols for export to China.

"The visit concluded with a 3.5-hour exit meeting as we heard about their level of satisfaction and clarified the questions that arose during the week-long visit."

He said the officials were traveling back to China and would meet with their senior officer either this week or next.

"We hope for a communication late this month that indicates the market will re-open for business this next navel season."

The officials toured orchards in the Ventura area and the San Joaquin Valley, and they also visited a packing operation in the latter.

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