Recently, arrivals of many imported fruits have been lower than during the same period last year, with prices for some varieties gradually increasing.
Imported apple arrivals have remained limited over the past two to three weeks, with Gala apples being particularly affected. Prices for New Zealand Gala apples have risen from below ¥300 (US$42) per box to ¥330-350 (US$46-49) per box, with some premium brands selling for even higher. Supplies of South African Gala apples are also limited. As New Zealand supplies remain tight, South African apple prices have followed the upward trend and are currently selling for around ¥260 (US$36) per box, with traders expecting further increases. Traders also noted that, in addition to Gala apples, arrivals of other imported apple varieties are lower than during the same period last year.
Left: New Zealand Gala apples; Right: South African oranges
Regarding imported oranges, prices for both South African and Australian oranges have remained relatively stable. New shipments of Australian oranges arrived during the second half of the week, slightly increasing market supply. The proportion of premium-quality South African sweet oranges remains low, and some traders reported that the overall quality of current arrivals is not as good as in previous years.
The US cherry market has improved somewhat. Premium Regina cherries in 9R are selling for around ¥550 (US$77) per box, while 9.5R fruit is priced at approximately ¥500 (US$70) per box, both higher than last week. However, supplies of the larger 9R size remain limited, helping to support prices.
Left: American cherries; Right: South African lemons
Philippine pineapple prices have increased by around 40% compared with two weeks ago. Depending on the brand, #7 Golden Pineapples are currently selling for approximately ¥210-230 (US$29-32) per case. Traders explained that supplies are lower than they would typically be at this time of year due to unfavorable weather conditions in the production areas. At the same time, strong demand and higher prices in northern China have further pushed up prices across the market.
The Peruvian avocado market has remained relatively stable in recent weeks. Premium #24 avocados are selling for around ¥80-85 per case, although arrivals vary by shipment. Traders noted that overall Peruvian avocado supplies this season are lower than last year.
Left: Peruvian avocados; Right: Yunnan blueberries
Blueberry supplies in the Chinese market remain relatively limited. Prices for 18mm+ blueberries vary by brand, ranging from approximately ¥90 to ¥125 (US$13-17) per box. Traders explained that most blueberries currently available in southern China originate from Yunnan. The blueberry seasons in Dandong and Shandong are drawing to a close, and transporting fruit from northern production areas to southern markets such as Guangzhou takes around three days, which can affect firmness. As a result, much of the northern production is consumed locally. Yunnan, which is closer to southern markets and is currently harvesting Northern Highbush varieties, has become the main source of supply. However, production remains limited, keeping the market tight and prices on an upward trend.