The production season for nectarines, plums, cherries, and other fruits from Dalian, China, is now underway. Due to a rapid temperature increase, these fruits entered the market more than ten days earlier than usual. They are currently available in large quantities and are expected to reach peak flavor by the end of March.
"The overall quality of this season's fruits is superior to previous years, with excellent taste, sweetness, and firmness. Yields have also remained relatively stable," said Mr. Li from the Dalian Nongfutong Fruit and Vegetable Professional Cooperative.
Left: Cherries; Right: Black plums
"When the season first began, prices were similar to previous years, but they have since dropped quickly and are currently lower than during the same period in past seasons," Li explained. For example, the current farm price of Dalian cherries is approximately ￥100–120 per kilogram, reflecting a 25%–35% decrease compared to previous years. Prices for nectarines and plums have also declined. Li attributed the price drop to weak consumer demand and the low prices of imported stone fruits, which have influenced the domestic market.
Nectarines
In terms of exports, Li noted that Dalian-grown fruits have gained increasing popularity in international markets. In the first half of the stone fruit season, nectarines and plums are in high demand in Russia and Southeast Asia. In the second half of the apple season, locally grown apples are primarily exported to the Philippines and Dubai. "Taste and price remain our key competitive advantages," he added.
"The Russian market favors nectarines and black plums, which are shipped via Horgos Port, benefiting from low transportation costs and fast delivery times. The Southeast Asian market prefers red fruits, particularly Dalian nectarines, which are sold in local wholesale markets and supermarkets."
Black plums
"The current export price for nectarines and plums has fallen by about 20% compared to previous years. However, with improved taste and quality, our competitive edge has grown stronger. We anticipate an increase in export orders," Li said.
Dalian Nongfutong Cooperative specializes in cherries, nectarines, plums, and apples, handling both cultivation and domestic/export sales. Its distribution channels include wholesale markets, supermarkets, and e-commerce platforms.