Newly launched imported fruits over the past two weeks include California cherries and South African oranges.
U.S. cherries arrived this week, with the 5 kg, 9.5R grade currently priced around $96–$110 per box. According to traders, this is a decrease from last year’s price of $124–$138 per box. However, prices remain relatively high and consumer demand is weak, resulting in slow sales. Currently, arrivals are limited.
Left: U.S. cherries; Right: South African oranges
South African Nova oranges arrived last week, along with the Satsuma variety, although overall volumes remain low. The 9 kg boxes are being sold at approximately $23.50 per box. Traders report that the fruit tastes good and has high moisture content. Compared to the same period last year, prices are lower this season across the fruit market.
As for other citrus varieties, South African grapefruit prices are similar to last week. Traders noted that major brands are priced around $22 per box, with consistently good quality. Other brands are selling for $18–$19 per box, with quality depending on the specific shipment. South African lemons are arriving in small volumes, currently priced at about $44.50 per box, approximately 15% lower than the initial launch price but still higher than the same period last year. Chinese lemons, still available at $37.50–$39 per box, are considered more favorable due to stable quality and lower prices. Meanwhile, the price of Egyptian oranges has increased slightly from last week, with high-quality ones averaging around $23.50 per box. Arrivals have dropped significantly, leading to a more stable market with a modest price increase.
Left: South African lemons; Right: South African grapefruits
Among imported apples, prices for New Zealand and South African Gala apples have risen. Traders attribute the increase to limited arrivals, though sales remain slow. Some have commented that overall apple sales have not been ideal.
Blueberry prices have edged up slightly. Currently, the 15 mm+ size is selling for around $7–$8.25 per box, which is about $1.40 higher than before. This specification is preferred by buyers. It’s reported that Yunnan’s blueberry supply is limited due to recent heavy rainfall affecting the harvest of outdoor-grown fruit. Many traders are instead offering blueberries from Anhui, which have arrived in good condition.
Peruvian avocados
Increased supply and sluggish demand have led to a recent decline in avocado prices. Traders report that ripe avocados are selling for around $9.60–$11 per box, while green avocados are priced at $11 or more. However, many lower-quality batches are available for around $4.80–$7.50 per box, depending on quality. Many buyers are opting for these lower-grade avocados due to their affordability.
Left: Chinese lychee gift boxes; Right: Thai Monthong durians
Durian arrivals have slightly decreased, leading to a corresponding price increase. Currently, Thai Monthong A6 durians transported by land are priced at over $96 per box, while sea-transported batches are about $92–$94, an increase of roughly $4 per box. Traders noted that when containers were first opened in the morning, the purchasing atmosphere was weak, with many waiting to see if prices would fall. Following the Dragon Boat Festival, single-order volumes declined, and overall sales have returned to pre-holiday levels.
Chinese lychee gift boxes are now available. Due to higher lychee production this year, prices are significantly lower compared to last year. Traders reported that King Lychee gift boxes have dropped to nearly half of their previous prices.
Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies