In China, the season for sweet persimmons typically spans from September through late October. This year, however, due to climatic influences, fruit coloration has been slower, and firmness has increased, allowing a longer time for the fruit to ripen on the trees. As a result, sales are anticipated to continue until around November 10-15, boosted by a particularly abundant harvest.
Shaanxi Tianshi Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd., which manages a 173.3-hectare persimmon plantation, is experiencing this delayed harvest. "Typically, persimmons are harvested around the 'First Frost' solar term (October 23 on the lunar calendar), but this year, about half of the fruit is still ripening. This extends our sales window," explained Mr. Cheng from Shaanxi Tianshi. "The growing temperature variations between day and night enhance nutrient absorption, improving Brix levels, taste, and firmness of the late-season fruit."
Mr. Cheng explained that several major persimmon-producing areas experienced extended rainy periods last season, leading to a sharp reduction in output and higher prices. This year, favorable weather conditions have produced a bumper crop, resulting in at least double the yield compared to last year and subsequently lower prices.
"Last year, the initial price at the origin was around ¥5/kg, rising during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day period. This year, however, prices have remained below ¥5/kg, averaging about 30% lower than last year," Cheng said. "In addition to the high yield, a significant portion of persimmons ripened later, missing the peak sales season and reducing demand by the time they were harvested, which has also impacted pricing."
Regarding the export market, Cheng noted that exporters have adopted a cautious approach due to the large crop and currency fluctuations, although persimmon exports are ongoing.
Discussing market preferences, Cheng noted that domestic supermarkets and most exporters favor the #75 size specification. "About 60% of our persimmons are #75, with the remainder primarily in the #80 and #85 sizes. #75 meets the mass consumer market needs, while #80 and above cater to premium markets, including business gifts. This year, we've introduced a high-end gift box featuring larger #80-#85 fruit," Cheng added.
With the frost season approaching, the company is monitoring the weather closely and plans to transfer fruit into greenhouses if frost or low temperatures are forecasted.
Shaanxi Tianshi Agricultural's persimmon base, operating as a designated municipal modern agricultural park, holds both local customs export certification and green food certification. This year's production is expected to reach approximately 4 million kilograms, with a target of 6 million kilograms for next season. The "Shiyuanhui" persimmon brand reaches consumers through live streaming, supermarkets, wholesale markets, and processing plants and is exported to countries such as Vietnam and Thailand through international trade partners.