The May Day holiday typically brings a surge in the fruit market, driving up sales of certain fruits like pineapples, durians, avocados, and Qilin watermelons. However, recent days of rain have dampened consumer activity, leading to a slowdown in sales and a decrease in the number of buyers, impacting the market.
Yunnan blueberry prices have continued to climb this week. The available blueberries primarily consist of Yunnan and local varieties, with local blueberries priced relatively lower. Due to limited arrivals of Yunnan blueberries, prices have risen by ¥10-15/piece this week. Reports indicate that the initial price drop earlier this month was due to a high influx of arrivals, which gradually decreased, especially in popular market sizes like 15mm+ and 18mm+, leading to a price rebound. Additionally, recent heavy rains have disrupted retail sales and slowed down market activity.
Vietnamese dragon fruit prices have sharply increased this week, with A-grade fruits experiencing a 30%-40% hike. Currently, large box sizes are selling for approximately ¥170/piece. Merchants attribute the price surge to a recent shortage in the production area coupled with increased demand ahead of the holidays. They anticipate the upcoming introduction of domestically produced dragon fruit next month, which may have some impact, although initial supplies are expected to be limited.
The arrival of imported durians has seen an uptick, accompanied by a gradual increase in market demand. Prices for Vietnamese Kanyao durians have risen compared to last week, with A-grade fruits fetching around ¥350/piece. Merchants note that while volumes from the source are on the rise, they have yet to fully reach the market, contributing to the price hike. They also highlight a preference for Vietnamese Kanyao over Thai Monthong due to similar pricing and perceived competitive advantages. Meanwhile, Thai Monthong volumes have increased, currently priced at approximately ¥1050-1150/piece, with some brands commanding up to ¥1200/piece. This year's production season has experienced delays, resulting in lower arrivals compared to the same period last year, thus driving up prices. Expectations are for volumes to increase further next week.
Left: Peruvian avocados; Right: Thai Monthong durians
Pineapple sales have been robust recently, spurred by limited arrivals of imported pineapples from the Philippines, resulting in a 20% price increase. Prices for Hainan golden pineapples have slightly decreased from their peak but remain generally stable. Hainan Golden Diamond Pineapple prices vary widely, ranging from ¥100-140/piece. Merchants explain that the current season for Hainan Golden Diamond pineapples is nearing its end, with fewer arrivals, particularly for higher-quality products, which are selling faster. Heavy rains in the Hainan production area last month affected pineapple quality, resulting in lower prices; however, recent improvements in quality have led to improved sales. While this year's pineapple market hasn't matched last year's performance, it remains steady compared to previous years.
Left: Lunwan oranges; Right: blueberries
Peruvian avocados, packaged in 4KG boxes, are currently priced around ¥140/piece. Merchants note a slight decline in market prices from the earlier peak this month, attributed to the upcoming May Day holiday. However, the quality of current arrivals is reported to be better than last month. This year, the early and abundant arrival of Peruvian avocados has impacted the market, affecting the demand and pricing of Chilean avocados, traditionally sold at higher prices earlier in the year.
Domestic Lunwan oranges are currently in the production season. Reports indicate that this year's market performance is not as strong as expected, with stall merchants reporting a 15% drop in selling prices compared to last year.