South African Flash Gala apples have arrived this week, with an initial price around 20% higher than in previous seasons. According to traders, the earlier launch and rising production and logistics costs have contributed to this price increase. Meanwhile, South African Gala apples have already been on the market for two weeks, but their prices are lower compared to last year. Traders attribute this to the abundant supply and the price pressure caused by the large volume and price drop of New Zealand apples.
Left: New Zealand apples; Right: South African Flash Gala apples
The supply of New Zealand apples continues to increase, with prices falling by around $2.75 per box compared to last week. Unlike last year's early season which saw more small-sized fruit, this year both large and small apples are arriving in abundance. Traders note that although large apples used to sell better, currently both sizes are sold slowly.
Egyptian oranges entered the Chinese market last week, with prices slightly lower than their initial launch. A 15kg box is currently priced around $16.50–$18.00.
Left: Peruvian Red Globe grapes; Right: Australian Crimson grapes
The price of Chilean nectarines continues to rise. Some traders mentioned that while shipments are ongoing, importers are controlling the pace at which they release containers to help stabilize the market. Quality remains good overall, though sales are somewhat slow.
Chilean plums also arrived last week. After nationwide distribution, arrival volumes at individual markets remain manageable, keeping price fluctuations in check. The 2J specification plums in plastic crates are currently priced at $30.25–$33.00 per box, about $1.40–$2.10 lower than last week. Some traders noted that recent arrivals have softer fruit with fewer green, unripe pieces.
Chilean Sweet Mary plums have also entered the market, priced at around $17.20 per box, with quality and pricing in line with previous seasons. The production season for the popular cherry plums has now ended.
Chilean Sweet Mary plums
For blueberries, Peruvian blueberries are selling for around $15.10 per box, down from previous weeks. Traders attribute the decline to increased arrivals of locally grown blueberries from Guangdong and other regions, which are available in large volumes at lower prices. Yunnan blueberries are also on the market; prices vary by brand but remain stable overall and are generally higher than those from other regions.
Left: Peruvian blueberries; Right: Peruvian avocado
Imported avocados have seen sharp price increases this week. The price of #20 Peruvian avocados jumped from $20.25 per box to $24.25 per box by Wednesday, while Chilean avocados are selling for about $27.00 per box. Traders report that Chilean avocado shipments are expected to end by the end of this month, with current arrivals showing good quality. The price surge for Peruvian avocados is partly due to smaller arrivals and the delay of a major shipment. Two weeks ago, Peruvian avocados were selling for $16.20–$17.50 per box, compared to today's higher prices. Traders expect prices to normalize next month. So far, the quality of Peruvian avocados has been ideal, and no price drops due to quality issues are anticipated in the near future.
Imported pineapples are currently in short supply, with prices holding firm at around $24.50–$28.50 per box. Prices remain elevated due to limited availability.