Crisp red plums produced in Sichuan, China are about to enter the market, with the production season lasting approximately one and a half months.
According to Mr. Gu Tao, head of Sichuan Meitesen Agriculture, hailstorms in many planting bases this year have resulted in numerous damaged fruits. Some orchards have even experienced harvest failures, leading to a significant drop in overall production. "The reduction in supply has driven up market prices. Currently, prices are about 30% higher than last year. High-quality batches are selling for over ¥4/kg, and the overall market outlook is favorable." He also noted that the taste and Brix levels of the plums remain unaffected.
The primary market for crisp red plums is Zhejiang. Gu mentioned that foreign merchants are showing increasing interest in the product, leading to an expansion of the sales area. "In addition to Zhejiang, we are now selling in Changsha, Guiyang, Chengdu, and Chongqing. Since the plums are grown at high altitudes, they have a superior taste, and we expect positive market feedback."
"Due to weather conditions and inadequate pruning by some farmers, numerous plums are not suitable for commercial sale this year. We plan to use these plums to produce fruit wine. Additionally, to improve the yield and quality of crisp red plums, local efforts include introducing several large wholesalers and establishing a fruit association to standardize planting management. We aim to enhance yield and quality next year to better meet market demand."
Besides domestic sales, Sichuan's crisp red plums are also exported to Vietnam and Cambodia. "We export smaller fresh plums to these markets, where they are often used in salads with local seasonings. Export prices and volumes have remained relatively stable in recent years."
Meitesen Agriculture is located in Gulin, Sichuan, a prime production area for crisp red plums. The company also produces sweet oranges, Zhenlong pomelos, and lychees, with sales channels including e-commerce, community group buying, and wholesale markets.