China has released an approval document allowing imports of fresh kiwifruit from Iran that meet the agreed phytosanitary requirements. The approval took effect on Tuesday under protocols confirmed by both countries, according to the General Administration of Customs.
The development aligns with China's broader strategy to expand agricultural import sources. In recent years, the term "fruit freedom" has appeared frequently among Chinese consumers, reflecting the wider availability of imported fruit. Analysts note that the current pace of import openings may reduce trade costs and risks for China and its partners, creating new opportunities for exporters in emerging markets.
In the first nine months of the year, China's fruit exports reached US$5.80 billion, up 1.6 percent year-on-year. Fruit imports rose 4.6 percent to US$16.45 billion, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. ASEAN remains a key supplier, with durians, bananas, and mangoes widely present in Chinese retail channels. Products from more distant origins, such as Chilean cherries and New Zealand kiwifruit, continue to grow their presence.
Experts note that the growth of "fruit freedom" is linked to China's ongoing policy of high-level opening-up during the 14th Five-Year Plan period, including the development of a global network of free trade zones. Policy documents for the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan call for further diversification of agricultural imports and better alignment between trade and production.
From January to October, China's agri-food trade with ASEAN reached US$51.3 billion, up 8.9 percent year-on-year. Imports of dried and fresh fruit from ASEAN exceeded US$10 billion and represented more than two-thirds of China's global fruit imports, according to customs figures.
Analysts cite the alignment with international trade rules as a driver in lowering the costs of imported goods, including tariffs, customs procedures, and financing. This has supported higher import volumes and improved supply-chain efficiency. According to researchers, origin countries with different climatic conditions, such as Iran, may gain a market advantage through products that offer variety and availability for Chinese buyers.
Trade negotiations with partners, including tariff reduction processes within the APEC framework, have also lowered entry costs for imported produce. Some less-developed countries have received unilateral tariff reductions from China, reducing import prices and broadening access to the Chinese market.
Source: Global Times
