"The rise of Italian Kikoka gold kiwifruit with strong market demand"

The Italian kiwifruit industry, once a global leader, has faced significant challenges in recent years due to the spread of a destructive virus known as "Moria." This virus targets the roots of kiwifruit plants, leading to root rot and eventual plant death, devastating orchards across Italy.

Kevin, Asia Market Manager of RK Grower, shared his insights from the Kikoka Open Day held in October in Latina, Italy. "A few years ago, this once-thriving orchard was reduced to bare branches because of Moria. However, with innovative agricultural practices, the orchard has been revitalized," he said. The transformation involved cutting down the infected Hayward green kiwifruit plants and grafting Kikoka gold kiwi seedlings onto the robust 'Bounty' rootstock. "Today, the orchard is brimming with healthy Kikoka gold kiwifruit. The farmer is delighted with the new variety's ideal size, shape, and quality, which has rekindled hope for the Italian kiwifruit sector."

The Kikoka gold kiwifruit project introduces two new gold varieties, which promise to significantly reshape Italy's kiwifruit industry. Kevin highlighted the project's rapid growth trajectory, with production expected to increase from 2,000 tons to 15,000 tons by 2026. This has drawn substantial interest from growers, importers, and retailers worldwide. Kikoka gold kiwifruit is highly prized for its exceptional taste and texture, its long availability from October to May, and its strong demand in both European and global markets.

Kevin explained, "The global appetite for golden kiwifruit continues to surge, creating immense opportunities for the Italian kiwifruit industry. In Europe, the demand for late-season Kikoka gold kiwifruit is particularly strong. Retailers are thrilled about the consistent supply of this delicious variety throughout the extended season. In Asia, while supply remains limited this year, we see vast potential. We're conducting small-scale pilot programs in these markets to gather feedback ahead of the next season. The late Kikoka variety shows significant promise, especially for the January-to-April window in international markets."

Despite the dual challenges of Moria disease and climate change, the Italian kiwifruit industry is proving its resilience. By embracing innovation and cultivating new varieties like Kikoka gold kiwifruit, growers are paving the way for a sustainable future. As the industry adapts to changing conditions, Kikoka gold kiwifruit stands out as a beacon of hope, offering high-quality, nutritious, and flavorful fruit to both domestic and international markets.