The international kiwi market is rather peculiar at the moment. Supply from Chile is almost over and the scarce supply from New Zealand is pushing prices up. This in turn meant that Italian producers had to harvest early Summerkiwi and Green Light even earlier than usual.The first containers of Italian fruit destined to the US are already on their way and other produce has been shipped to the Netherlands.
According to an operator of the sector, "we do not agree with this, as the Brix level is really low, but that's how this sector works..."
The expert thinks that green Hayward kiwis are also at risk of being harvested early. "However, the companies should harvest produce with higher Brix levels and start exporting towards Europe from week 41 and overseas from weeks 43-44."