SHANGHAI, March 19 (Xinhua) -- The first batch of Sicilian blood oranges from Italy entered the Chinese market Tuesday after the imported fruits passed customs inspection in Shanghai, according to the city's customs.

The blood oranges, weighing 37.44 tonnes, were shipped from Catania Harbor on Sicily Island over a month ago and arrived at Shanghai's Yangshan Port.

In recent years, China has seen a growing demand for imported fruits, said Cai Xiuchao, a logistics manager in charge of the shipment of the oranges, adding that imports from EU countries will provide diverse and quality fruits to Chinese consumers.

Chen Weiqun, a wholesaler of imported fruits in Shanghai, said more orders of Sicilian blood oranges are being discussed.