Zespri, a kiwifruit marketer, received approval from New Zealand kiwifruit growers to expand its plantings abroad. The authorization will enable the cultivation of an additional 420 hectares of Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit annually for six years in Italy, France, Japan, South Korea, and Greece, commencing next year. This initiative is part of Zespri's strategy to ensure New Zealand kiwifruit is available globally year-round and to bridge the supply gap when domestic production is off-season.
To proceed with the expansion, Zespri needed to secure at least 75% backing from the growers. The proposal received overwhelming support, with 90.6% of kiwifruit growers voting in favor, and a voter turnout of 72.21%. This positive response marks a shift from previous instances where growers had rejected similar proposals. The New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc. (NZKGI), represented by chief executive Colin Bond, endorsed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of New Zealand filling market gaps to remain competitive.
Zespri's chief executive, Jason Te Brake, highlighted the significance of the vote for achieving a year-round supply to meet customer demand in key markets and enhance returns for New Zealand growers. He noted the positive outlook for Zespri Kiwifruit and the increasing demand from customers for a consistent, year-round supply of the fruit.
Source: RuralNews