AU: New apples varieties popular in Asia

Interest in the Asian markets has increased considerably in the last few years as interest in imported produce rises and people have more money to spend on "luxury" fruit and vegetables.

"Our export markets were traditionally the UK and Europe," explains Patrick Meikle from New Zealand apple exporter Golden Bay. "But in the last few years our exports to the Asian markets has increased. Our main destinations in Asia are China and Thailand, but also Indonesia, India, Singapore amongst others."

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The Asian market is growing but they don't take all varieties, according to Patrick, mainly the sweeter varieties such as Royal Gala and NZ Queen are popular. Breaburn and Pink Lady still go mainly to the UK and Europe.

Golden Bay are working on new varieties for the Asian markets, "They are still in the early stages, we only have samples at the moment, states Patrick. "We have sent some PiqaBoo samples across the whole of Asia and Europe this year and got very good feedback, we will have a bigger production next season, still only a few pallets, but the volumes will ramp up quickly after that."

The company also has other new varieties which have also received positive feedback. One of which is from their own trial orchard, a green, sweet apple yet to be named.

“Also a pinky/red variety with very good sweet apple with a pineapple taste. We will have more production of this one next year, couple of containers, then ramping up quickly after that," said Patrick. "We have a lot of confidence in our new varieties and have ambitious planting programs planned for the coming years."

Royal Gala remains the biggest export to Asia, a good red colour and sweet taste is the main requirement, then the different markets have different size requirements.

Golden Bay will have a stand at Asia Fruit Logistica for the third time but have attended the show for many years. "Unfortunately is it at the wrong time of the year for us to take samples to Hong Kong as it is right at the end of our season and we couldn't present the apples in their best condition."

Golden Bay will be at the New Zealand pavilion, Hall 3c O-01.

For more information:

Patrick Meikle
Golden Bay Fruit LLP
Email patrick@goldenbayfruit.com
Tel: +447739795273
www.goldenbayfruit.com