Russia: growing import of Chinese apple juice

Warsaw - According to Foodnews, Russia became the second largest buyer of Chinese apple juice concentrate (after the United States) in 2006. The Russian import grew continuously during the last few years – from 39,7 thousand MT in 2004, to 62 thousand MT in 2005 and 92,7 thousand MT in 2006. According to estimates, the volume in 2007 can reach 100 thousand MT. The growing demand from the Russian market can also influence the situation in the worldwide apple juice concentrate market, including price fluctuation.

The demand for apple juice in Russia, including sweet juice offered by Chinese processors grows rapidly. The relatively low price is the main advantage of Chinese juice, comparing with similar products from other countries: Poland, Hungary and Ukraine. Additionally, Chinese apple juice concentrate is delivered by train which is a relatively cheap way of transport. However, Chinese suppliers complain on serious problems with delayed payments from Russia.

According to Global Trade Information Systems, the Chinese export of apple juice concentrate increased from 650 thousand MT in 2005 to 672 thousand MT in 2006. The main destinations are the United States - 222 thousand MT, and European markets, like the Netherlands (73,4 thousand MT in 2005 and 82,5 thousand MT in 2006). Decline in import volumes of Chinese apple juice is seen in Germany, which bought 91 thousand MT in 2005 and only 63 thousand MT in last year. Lower volumes of apple juice concentrate from China were also imported by other European countries – Spain (6 thousand MT), United Kingdom (5,8 thousand MT) and France (2,8 thousand MT).

Publication date: February 28 2007
Author: FreshPlaza Correspondent Poland
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