Apple prices in China are on the rise due to low inventory and increased market demand ahead of the Qingming Festival.
"After the Chinese New Year, the peak period for traders purchasing apples arrived half a month earlier than in previous years. Many traders went directly to production areas before the holiday ended to secure supplies. This was largely because last year's apple market was sluggish, and the outlook for the future was uncertain. As a result, many fruit farmers were eager to sell as much as possible before the holiday, offering inventory at pre-warehouse prices. In regions such as Gansu and Shaanxi, 70-80% of farmers' apple stock had already been sold before the Chinese New Year. With overall inventory lower than in previous years, traders rushed to make early purchases, driving up production area prices," said Mr. Zhou from Tangsen Technology, a company specializing in apples and melons across Shaanxi, Gansu, and other regions.
Ruixiang red apple
"In Gansu's Jingning production area, for example, traders with limited inventory from the off-tree purchase period, as well as those optimistic about future price trends, have been making early purchases across various regions. In past years, apple procurement during this period was typically much lower."
"With limited inventory, prices have continued to rise, especially for apple varieties that initially had lower price points, such as Guangguo Fuji and Sweet Heart Fuji. Currently, the purchase price of Guangguo Fuji apples is around ¥6 per kilogram, an increase of approximately 40%, and demand remains strong."
Guangguo Fuji apples
"Compared to production area sales, consumer market demand has remained relatively steady. However, the apple market ahead of the Qingming Festival is performing better than last year. Whether prices will continue to rise after the festival will depend on market trends. Overall, apple quality has been good this year."
Regarding popular apple varieties, Mr. Zhou highlighted Ruixue, Ruixianghong, Jingning Red Fuji, and Guangguo Fuji: "In addition to domestic sales, Ruixianghong and Jingning Red Fuji are also in high demand for export. Ruixianghong apples, with their attractive appearance, excellent taste, and high market value, are particularly favored in high-end segments, such as business gifts. After the Chinese New Year, their prices dropped significantly, prompting traders to buy in bulk at lower rates. Meanwhile, Jingning Red Fuji apples in #60, #65, and #70 sizes remain popular in overseas markets. For Guangguo Fuji, both volume and price have increased post-Chinese New Year."