Despite being the peak season for garlic exports, high shipping costs have led to a weaker performance in the export market compared to last year. Mr. Wang, head of the sales department at Jining Shangzhuo Food Co., Ltd., provided an overview of common garlic varieties in China and the current export situation.
White garlic is the most widely cultivated and exported variety in China. It is harvested around mid-May, with sizes ranging from 4.5 cm to 6.5 cm. The weather in the growing regions during this year's harvest was favorable, with no rain, resulting in garlic with good color, dryness, and overall quality. The current price is approximately $1,115 per ton.
In addition to white garlic, space-bred garlic is also a common variety. This garlic is typically purple, smaller in size, with specifications of 4.5 cm, 5.0 cm, and 5.5 cm+. Purple garlic is usually more expensive than white garlic, with mixed grades currently priced around $1,277 per ton.
Hongjiangjun is a higher-quality variety than purple garlic, with a smaller planting area mainly concentrated in Pizhou. Sizes range from 4.5 cm to 6.5 cm. Another high-quality variety is pure white garlic, primarily grown in Jinxiang, with sizes of 4.5 cm, 5.0 cm, and 5.5 cm+. This variety is known for its pure white color and attractive final products.
According to Mr. Wang, the traditional off-season market in May saw a shortage of garlic due to high shipping costs, leading to strong customer demand. Although shipping costs have been declining since mid-July, they remain higher than in previous years. Garlic prices dropped a few weeks ago, and current order volumes are down compared to the same period in previous years.
In addition to garlic, Jining Shangzhuo Food Co., Ltd. also exports ginger, onions, apples, and pears.