"China: "Prices of watermelons in production areas increased"

"The 'unicorn' watermelon is a new watermelon variety that has been cultivated through research. Watermelons have high demands in terms of natural growing environment, soil, and sunlight. It only takes about 60 days from the moment the seed is planted until the watermelon can be harvested. This requires careful attention, but since the growing period is short, the flavor is excellent, and the turnover is quick, many farmers and consumers have shown great interest in watermelons in the last two years.

"Many watermelon production areas enjoyed an abundant harvest this year, as many production areas of other fruits also did. The production volume greatly increased in comparison with previous years. The price of watermelons purchased from the farm dropped from the 3 yuan [0.44 USD] per 0.5 kg between April 28-29 when watermelons entered the market to 1.5-1.6 yuan [0.22-0.23 USD] per 0.5 kg within 3-4 days. The price continued to fall to 1.2-1.4 yuan [0.18-0.20 USD] per 0.5 kg in early May. This development continued into the second half of June. The low prices have caused severe losses for many watermelon farmers." This is according to Fan Zhiqiang of the Yuncheng Yurun Specialized Crop Plantation Cooperation.

"As for the 'unicorn' watermelon variety, domestic production has been at full capacity since late June. The main production areas are in Ningxia and Gansu. A surface area of more than 667 hectares remains to be harvested. The price of 'unicorn' watermelons increased from 1.8-1.9 yuan [0.26-0.28 USD] per 0.5 kg in early July to 2.6 yuan [0.38 USD] per 0.5 kg in early August because the end of the harvest season approaches. This harvest season will end in little more than one month. It is my estimate that the price will fluctuate, but remain above 2 yuan [0.29 USD] per 0.5 kg."

"We own a watermelon greenhouse demonstration farm in Yuncheng, Shanxi, that covers 13 hectares, as well as more than 367 hectares of watermelon greenhouse plantations. Our main varieties of 'unicorn' watermelon are Zaojia 8424 and Meidu. Although the price of these two varieties is relatively high, their quality, flavor, and sugar content are even higher. We have also expanded our base of operation to include Shaanxi and Gansu, because the watermelon market offered excellent sales conditions last year."

"We currently sell watermelons under our own brand 'Yurun' through traditional marketing channels and e-commerce platforms. We mainly sell to fruit chain-stores and supermarkets, but also to wholesale markets. We sell watermelons throughout China. The overall market was somewhat bleak this year, but we are still satisfied with our sales results. These results depend on our expansion of marketing channels and the control of our team over every aspect of our products."