Australian nectarines have entered the Chinese market a week earlier than usual this year, and the fruit is currently in its peak sales season.
"Heavy rainfall in the production areas has affected the quality of most nectarines, making them less firm and flavorful compared to last year," explained Sharon Huang from Guangzhou Faikee Fruit Limited, a leading importer of Australian stone fruits. "The forecast suggests continued rainfall and unstable weather conditions in the production regions."
"Key indicators for buyers—such as firmness, color, and taste—are being closely scrutinized. Among the arrivals, the Diamond Pearl variety stands out for its ideal firmness and flavor, commanding relatively high prices. The Polar Kirst variety, a strong performer last year, still boasts good firmness and a crisp texture this season. However, its lower sweetness has impacted both its price and sales. Additionally, the exclusive Flavor Pearl variety from The Montague tree has arrived in the market and is currently noted for its favorable taste."
Right: Flavor Pearl variety
Regarding market prices, Sharon noted that due to the current consumer environment and broader fruit market conditions, both the initial price of the first shipment and subsequent price trends are lower than in previous years. "At present, a box of nectarines is priced around ¥400, which is 10–15% lower than the same period last year. Sales are progressing slowly. Among the varieties, the white-fleshed Diamond Pearl with exceptional taste this year, is priced higher, with large fruit (#70) exceeding ¥500 per box."
Early arrivals have predominantly consisted of smaller-sized fruits, with the proportion of larger fruits expected to increase as the season advances. "The majority of arrivals have been sizes #63 and #65, which some wholesalers prefer. However, the northern market, a key sales region for Australian nectarines, demands larger fruits above size #70. This preference for larger sizes has further affected sales and pricing of smaller fruits."
Australian peaches
Australian peaches are facing similar challenges. "The early arrivals had a subpar taste, but the quality has gradually improved. Nevertheless, due to adverse weather conditions in the production areas, some batches lack the desired firmness, a critical requirement for buyers. Peaches with insufficient firmness are typically sold at lower prices," Sharon explained.
Australian cherries
Cherries are another major product for Faikee Fruit Limited. According to Sharon, the current batch of Australian cherries is of comparable quality to previous years, but prices have dropped by approximately ¥100 per box. "Last year, the Chilean cherry market experienced a supply shortage and quality issues, creating a window of opportunity for Australian cherries, which performed well and fetched premium prices. However, this year, the supply of Chilean cherries is abundant, overall market demand is lower, and the firmness of early Australian cherry varieties has been slightly lacking, contributing to the price decline."
Guangzhou Faikee Fruit Limited specializes in selling a wide variety of high-quality imported and domestic fruits, including Australian and Chilean stone fruits, cherries, and New Zealand apples.