China: Kiwiberry industry still in its infancy

"The Kiwiberry, also known as the arguta kiwi, is a valuable and rare fruit that is not commonly to be seen on the table and which has a limited production worldwide. At present, the Dandong region of Liaoning province in China has the largest area under cultivation. The ripening of the kiwiberry varies, depending on the variety, weather and growing area. In the Ya'an area of Sichuan province, the early maturing varieties are harvested at the end of July, and the late maturing varieties begin in late August or early September. Market supply lasts for 2 to 3 months. In recent years, due to their scarcity, prices have remained relatively stable." says Mr. Jinming Fan from the Sichuan Yinuoshi agricultural science and Technology Co Ltd.

"The appearance of the Kiwiberry is smooth and it can be eaten directly without peeling after washing. The risks are lower than they are for kiwifruit, which can only grow in high altitude and cold regions. In addition, their nutritional and vitamin content is higher."

"Our company was established in 2014 and is located in Ya'an city of Sichuan province. After 4 years of continuous efforts, our plantation in Ya'an has been increased from less than 20 acres to the current nearly 400 acres. In the next two years, our fruit trees will be in full bloom. It is estimated that the annual output of our Ya'an base will reach 300-400 tons in two years. In terms of variety selection, at present, our kiwiberry is a high-quality variety that we imported from abroad. In the future, we will consider cooperating with relevant research institutions to breed new varieties."

"Compared to the Dandong region of Liaoning province, the kiwiberry production in Ya'an city is still relatively small, but I do not think this will pose a threat to our industry. Because, first of all, we plant different varieties. Secondly, because of our location, we can hit the market a fortnight to a month earlier, which gives us a decisive edge."

"Most of our fruit trees are still in the fruiting period, this year is expected to yield 20 tons, and is mainly sold to the high-end supermarkets in first and second tier cities in China. In order to build a highly efficient sales system, we are thinking of establishing an independent sales company, not only to unify the packaging but also to build the brand. We'll also conduct market promotions through on-line platforms. Meanwhile, we hope to cooperate with regional distributors through our existing sales channels of high-end supermarkets."

"At the present stage, we are looking for distributors who have experience in berries and are located in the Beijing Xinfadi market, the Shanghai Huizhan market and the Guangzhou Jiangnan market, to work together so that more people will be able to taste our unique kiwiberry."

Jinming Fan
Sichuan Yinuoshi agricultural science and Technology Co Ltd.
Website: www.inno-fresh.com
Mobile: +86 133 5056 6918
Email: fan@inno-fresh.com