© Eurofresh Distribution

Kiwifruit is currently enjoying a spell of great popularity across the world, and its period in the limelight is set to continue. Demand is increasing in the major markets, thanks partly to its central role in the booming fruit juice industry and its attractiveness for health-conscious consumers. The growth in the world’s kiwi markets is also being driven by the sector’s constant innovation. Yellow kiwis have enjoyed great success in Asian markets, particularly in China, where consumers prefer sweet-tasting fruits.

© Eurofresh Distribution

Colombian Hass avocados arrived in China for the first time on July 1st. Having set off from the Port of Buenaventura on May 28th, the 23-ton shipment landed in Shanghai and was released to importer Mr. Avocado. The protocol between China and Colombia was signed on December 13th 2019, and adds to a growing list of countries that can export avocados to the Asian giant, which includes the US, the Philippines, Mexico, Peru, Chile, New Zealand and Kenya (for frozen avocados).

On 14 July, Zespri and Dole signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Shanghai, making Dole Zespri’s official distribution partner in China. The move is intended to support mutual development in this lucrative market.

Michael Jiang, general manager of Zespri Greater China, said, “We believe that Dole will provide a strong impetus for the sales growth of Zespri kiwifruits in China market and help Zespri to deepen our market structure.”

© New Zealand’s government

New Zealand’s horticulture sector has come together with the government to devise a strategy for the country post-Covid. Published on 15 July, the roadmap contains the detailed steps required to accelerate the recovery. Antony Heywood, chief executive of Vegetables New Zealand, expressed his optimism with the collaboration, given that the wealth of expertise in the horticulture industry is often compromised by a lack of government insight into and understanding of the industry.

Richard Liu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of JD.com /// © JD.com

China’s grape production is predicted to rise 9% to 10.8 million tons, as the country bounces back from last year’s severe frosts. Record exports of 360,000 tons are predicted, with higher shipments to the Philippines, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. Imports are estimated to fall by 10% to 27,000 tons, due to reduced shipments from top suppliers Chile, Peru, and the US. Small deliveries from the EU have commenced following recent market access for Spain and Portugal. However, the US remains China’s top Northern Hemisphere supplier.

© Coex Co., Ltd

Turkey is set to become a key player in Asian fruit and vegetable markets. The country is currently in advanced negotiations to secure access for its wide range of fresh produce to key markets such as China, Japan, Thailand and the Philippines, among others. Turkey’s Minister of Trade, Ruhsar Pekcan announced the acceleration in the country’s plan to diversify its fresh fruit and vegetable exports. Turkey currently is authorised to ship cherries to China and South Korea. Pekcan said that she soon expects China to authorise shipments of Turkish citrus, apples, grapes and pomegranate.