Russia officially re-opened its borders for imported Chinese pears on the 20th of February, 2022. The Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision previously closed the border for Chinese pears on the 10th of August, 2019. Russia temporarily stopped the import of Chinese pears and other pip fruits due to health concerns. The re-opening of the Russian border comes at an important time for the Chinese pear industry. Fruit export to Russia provides opportunities and hope for the Chinese fruit industry during a difficult pandemic.
Hebei pears
China and Russia went through a series of difficult negotiations before the borders were opened again. The General Administration Customs China (GACC) worked hard together with Chinese pear exporters to meet the requirements. The solution to this issue is not only beneficial for Russian consumers who will enjoy a wider variety of import fruits, but also provides economic stimulation for pear production areas in the Chinese countryside. The re-opening of the Russian border has far-reaching consequences.
Pear processing factory
Chinese pear export to Russia reached a peak volume in 2018. China exported 36,000 tons of pears to Russia in that year. Russia was the fourth largest export market for Chinese pears. Then the export temporarily stopped on the 10th of August, 2019. That year the total export volume only reached 8,000 tons. China exports pears to 71 countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the USA, Canada, and Russia. In 2018 Russia accounted for 7.4% of the Chinese pear export volume.
Hebei pears
"A lot of Chinese pear varieties are very popular in Russia, including the Chinese White pear, Yellow Crown pear, Red Fragrant pear, Shandong Long pear, and Conference pear. Russia is much closer than other European countries or the USA. That keeps the distribution cost significantly lower. Moreover, Russian weather is cold and their domestic pear production volume is rather small. This situation offers profitable opportunities to Chinese pear exporters. Not only are Chinese pears delicate and beautiful to look at, but they are also fresh and crisp. Moreover, they help moisten the airways and suppress coughing, and they are full of many vitamins. Pears improve the human immune system. And pears can be eaten fresh, juiced, steamed, cooked, or frozen. Finally, the price is reasonable and pears can be supplied all year round. That is why Chinese pears are popular with Russian consumers. The re-opening of the Russian market is promising for Chinese pear exporters. We are looking forward to a great season," said Mr. Gavin Bian of Hebei Tianbo Fruit Co., Ltd.
Hebei pears
When asked about their export plans for the Russian market, Gavin Bian replied: "A significant portion of the Chinese pear production volume in the coming production season will be earmarked for the Russian market. We will then develop our export plans based on concrete market conditions. Many different elements influence the export market. Take the Russian market as an example, last week Russia invaded Ukraine, and that creates numerous uncertainties for trade in the region. For example, the sudden devaluation of the Russian ruble raises the import cost and adds to the risk of trade with Russia. Moreover, the USA, the EU, the UK, and Canada recently announced their exclusion of Russia from the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT). Such financial developments have a destructive effect on international trade."
Gavin Bian: CEO of Hebei Tianbo Fruit, vice-president of the fruit branch of the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By Products, vice-president of the pear branch of the China Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Association, and vice-president of daily operations as well as secretary-general of the pear branch of the China Fruit Marketing Association
Hebei Tianbo Fruit is one of the main exporters of Chinese pears. The company was established in 1999. Their annual export volume is around 30,000 tons, which puts them among the largest exporters of pears in China. The company primarily exports pears to the USA, Canada, Mexico, Israel, the EU, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Bangladesh. Hebei Tianbo Fruit exports Yellow Crown pears, Chinese White pears, Zaosu pears, Beryl pears, Red Fragrant pears, and Gyokuro Fragrant pears.
For more information:
Gavin Bian - CEO of Tianbo Fruit
Hebei Tianbo Fruit Trade Co., Ltd.
Website: www.tianbofruit.com.cn
E-mail: gavinbian@tianbofruit.com.cn
Tel.: +86 135 8219 8678
WeChat: bianqinggang001