A report from the NZ Ministry for Primary Industries shows a strong future for New Zealand horticulture; forecast export revenue was rising to $8.19 billion by 2025. The report highlighted the strong growth of cherries, which are mainly grown in Central Otago. Cherries are an increasingly promising crop with export revenue up 8% to $84 million in the year to June 20, 2023 due to production expansion and forecast to grow 14% to $96 million in the year to June 30, 2024.
With a later Chinese New Year, falling on February 10 this season, NZ cherry growers will have a longer window to make the most of the key markets who are a part of these celebrations. Additional air freight routes from Christchurch to China and Hong Kong during the cherry export season will also favor Central Otago growers. The arrival of China Southern Airlines in Christchurch brings three additional flights to China a week, offering more freight space and freight rates had also reduced.
Source: odt.co.nz