The peak period of sales season is already over for red heart kiwi fruit in Guizhou production areas. Mr. Duan Shaohua of Liupanshui City Agricultural Investment Development recently talked about the market conditions for Chinese red heart kiwi fruit.
The harvest season for red heart kiwi fruit in Guizhou production areas began on the 25th of July and lasted until the 15th of September. "Our overall production volume reached 8,000 tons this year. That is more or less the same as last year. We have already sold around 6,500 tons so far. The speed of sales is higher than last year around this period. Around the National Day [ 1 October, 2019] holiday in particular our supply was unable to satisfy market demand. We have now slowed down the sales speed on purpose. We hope to extend the supply period of kiwi fruit from storage until February next year. There is another peak period of retail around Chinese Spring Festival [25 January, 2020]," explained manager Duan.
"As for the production volume, our production areas suffered from hail and excessive rainfall in the early stages of the production season. The kiwi fruit production areas in Guizhou suffered as the pollination ratio went down and some of the fruit fell from the vines. However, in the second half of the production season the weather conditions were good. The product quality is excellent this year. The current market price is around 30 yuan [4.23 USD] per kg. That is 30% higher than around this time last year. The main reason for this price increase is the integration of segments in the supply chain. We developed a marketing program of sales promotion and tasting activities. We have to raise the price to make up for this investment. However, the feedback from consumers who participate in these activities is overwhelmingly positive. The activities also raise brand awareness among consumers." When asked how consumers view the price rise, manager Duan stated, "product quality is key. If the product quality is good and the flavor is good, then the price does not have an impact on our supply volume."
The main problem in the sale and distribution of red heart kiwi fruit is that the storage period is relatively short in comparison with other kiwi fruit varieties. "We use advanced climate-controlled warehouses that meet international standards in order to guarantee the highest product quality and the best flavor. We refrigerate the kiwi fruit during every segment of the distribution process. The temperature is kept between 2-6 degrees Celsius. Under these conditions the kiwi fruit can be kept for about 8 months," explained manager Duan. Three years ago, Miniho kiwi fruit began to use the Compac installations imported from New Zealand. The installation can process about 200 tons per day. During this process the kiwi fruit is photographed, selected, and weighed, and the water content and sugar content are measured. "This automated system helped us cut down the cost of labor and improve the efficiency of selection and packaging. This means we can improve the product quality of our kiwi fruit and provide consumers with a great product."
In addition to fresh kiwi fruit, Liupanshui City Agricultural Investment Development also produces kiwi fruit wine, kiwi fruit juice, dried kiwi fruit, and kiwi fruit brandy.
For more information:
Duan Shaohua - Manager
Liupanshui City Agricultural Investment Development
Tel.: +86 18216808829