The Secret of Staying on Top
The sunny hillsides and low level of precipitation, make Ehime ideal for the 
cultivation of mandarin oranges and thus Ehime has been Japan's top producer
of mandarin oranges since 1970. Especially in the southwestern and island 
regions of the prefecture, a majority of farmers cultivate mandarin oranges. 
To keep its competitive edge, Ehime has been experimenting with expanded 
greenhouse cultivation and the introduction of new types to meet consumer 
needs, such as the pre-season mandarin orange. Iyokan oranges, which were 
originally developed in Matsuyama, are delicious and have a sweet aroma. 
Ehime is also the top producer of Iyokan oranges, holding an approximate 70 
percent share of Japan's Iyokan market. 

Ehime's Mandarin Oranges Are Consumed Globally
Manufacturing of juice and canned citrus products is also a major business. 
Using the best technology and know-how available, fresh and sweet juice is 
produced. New products such as citrus jello are also made to meet customer 
demands. In addition, Ehime has undertaken international cultural exchange 
through mandarin orange cultivation. Agricultural trainees from China have 
been coming to Ehime to stay on local farms to learn first hand, the latest 
technology in cultivation.
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