Chinese muskmelons from Hainan had already entered the market more than one month ago. The product quality is not as good as in previous years because production areas suffered from extreme weather conditions this year. Ms. Wang of Korla Western Mountain of Flowers and Fruit Specialized Cooperation for Agricultural Plantation recently talked about the current conditions in muskmelon production areas in Hainan and their performance on the market.
According to Ms. Wang, the temperature differences in Hainan production areas were very small this season. Furthermore, the production areas suffered from typhoons and heavy rainfall. That is why the product quality of the first harvest is less than ideal. The percentage of top-quality muskmelons is quite small this year. The production volume per hectare also declined.
Muskmelons are having a difficult time in the market because the sugar content and the crispness of the muskmelons is lower than usual. The sub-par product quality also reduces the shelf life of muskmelons, which exacerbates the difficult retail situation. The overall consumer experience with muskmelons is not as good as in previous years. In addition, typhoons frequently stopped shipping of muskmelons, which made it difficult for the muskmelons to reach the market on time, and this in turn further reduced the freshness and product quality of muskmelons and increased the percentage of muskmelons that spoiled during transport.
"Although the product quality is lower than last year, market demand remains the same. The price of top-quality muskmelons of well-known brands such as 'Hongguan xiangfeimi' still remains strong. These muskmelons are outstanding in product quality and price. Some of the low- to mid-range muskmelon varieties find it harder to fetch a high price, even if the product quality is alright," said Ms. Wang. "In the end, however, the price level is more or less the same as last year. The production season in Hainan is expected to continue until June next year. The market conditions in the second half of this season will depend on weather conditions and developments in the relationship between supply and demand."
"Korla Western Mountain of Flowers and Fruit mainly sells 'Hongguan xiangfeimi' muskmelons. This muskmelon variety is shaped like an egg and the outside is bright yellow all over. The flavor is both sweet and fresh. This muskmelon has the typical flavor of Hami melons. That is why this variety is so popular with Chinese consumers.
According to Ms. Wang, "While we continue to sell this popular muskmelon variety, we will also develop new product varieties. We carry out our own research, development, and cultivation. And we hope to select a number of new muskmelon varieties that will satisfy diverse consumer demand. We want to present the market with more variety, and the consumer with more options. We also aim to improve product quality and extend shelf-life. However, selecting the right seedling is not enough to guarantee product quality. We also need to improve problems in transportation, storage, and retail. The right balance between research and development of muskmelon varieties and promotion of suitable markets constantly requires readjustment. Data-processing and supply chain optimization are crucial, but we still have to formulate a concrete plan to address these issues in the future."
Muskmelons remain fresh for around 7-15 days. While most fruit is supplied to retailers via traditional distribution networks, the soft muskmelon requires refrigerated transport. "Current refrigeration technology is far from perfect, which is why we limit the export of our muskmelons to Southeast Asia. Only if technology can extend the shelf-life of muskmelons beyond 15 days can we export our muskmelons to Europe."
For more information:
Ms. Wang Qi
Korla Western Mountain of Flowers and Fruit Specialized Cooperation for Agricultural Plantation
Shenzhen City Western Mountain of Flowers and Fruit Agricultural Development Co., Ltd.
Tel.: (+86) 136 0269 3566
E-mail: [email protected]
