The Asian cherry markets have been tough this year, according to Sam Vasala from Sai World. There is a big demand for larger sizes but not as much for the smaller sizes.
Sam exports cherries from Tasmania into the Asian markets, "Fruit size from Tasmania is good, but the Asian markets, in particular Vietnam and China which are important markets for Australin cherries have been flooded by smaller size fruit. Chile has increased exports this season by 60% and go into the same markets. They ship around 22,000 containers to China alone, and there are so many cherries going into Vietnam from China. The high volumes, of course cause prices to drop. These are premium markets, but still big volumes will always lead to low prices on smaller fruit . The size 30-34's are seeing a high prices and Thailand is doing well."
"The mainland Australian season was tough and in some areas, quality was affected by heavy rain, but what was good was very good. Australian Growers are producing excellent fruit, but the Chileans are also producing good quality. New Zealand is also on the market with good quality and sizing. You really have to put a lot of effort into having top-quality fruit in the Asian markets, which Australia is very good at.
"We only send the best quality fruit to China. Our partners at Kelly's Creek have a small boutique orchard and can focus on bigger-sized fruit with great quality. I think for growers with bigger volumes it will be a tough season."
For more information:
Sam Vasala
Sai World Pty Ltd
Tel: +61 (07) 5641 2217
Mob: +61470406579
Email: [email protected]
www.saiworld.com.au