The forecast for cherry production in Australia is at 16,000 MT in 2017/18 after sharply falling to 10,000 MT in the previous year as a result of unfavorable seasonal conditions.
Exports of cherries contracted to 2,500 MT in 2016/17, 50 percent below the official estimate as a result of adverse weather events including heavy spring rainfall. Imports of cherries mainly from the United States fell to 2,200 MT in 2016/17, but are forecast to recover to 2,700 MT in 2017/18.
Forecasts for peach and nectarine production are predicted to increase slightly to 92,000 MT in 2017/18, assuming more favorable weather conditions.
Exports of peaches and nectarines in 2017/18 are at 12,000 MT, up from 9,000 MT in 2016/17, which was 40 percent below the official estimate due to lower production and the impact of adverse seasonal conditions on fruit quality. Imports of peaches and nectarines in 2017/18 are forecast at 3,000 MT.