Chinese chestnuts are imported during winter and well-liked because of their easy pellicle removal after roasting or boiling. The bulk supply is October to December. They arrive in 60kg jute bags. Total 1991 importation was 28,000 tones. Third in importance are supplies of chestnuts from Korea.
Korean chestnuts are similar to Japanese cultivars, but Korea supplies mainly hand-cut chestnuts.
The cutting process is labor intensive, and great importance is attached to the manner of cutting. The product is priced as first or second quality according to the cut. The Japanese have sent expert women cutters to Korea to train locals. All pellicle and outer skin surface is removed, leaving only white flesh. Large chestnuts are preferred but pricing is by weight.