Korea is currently grappling with a looming crisis in its apple production. The situation is exacerbated by the impacts of climate change, demographic shifts, and stringent import regulations. Once a staple fruit, apples are becoming increasingly scarce in South Korea.
Driven by climate warming-induced extreme weather conditions, apple production in the country has plummeted by 30% in 2023 alone. This decline, coupled with an ageing population in rural areas where apple cultivation is prevalent, poses significant challenges for the industry. Moreover, Korea's stringent regulations on fresh fruit imports further exacerbate the shortage, as foreign apple varieties are virtually barred from entry.
The consequences are evident in skyrocketing apple prices, with the average wholesale price per kilogram surging by nearly 98% compared to the previous year. Despite suggestions to import apples from other countries, regulatory hurdles make this solution unfeasible.
As Korea faces the prospect of prolonged "appflation," experts stress the importance of developing a comprehensive, long-term strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change and address the country's ageing agricultural workforce.
source: kedglobal.com