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Australian lychees and cherries in high demand for lunar new year despite weather challenges

With the Lunar New Year on the horizon, the Australian fruit sector, particularly in North Queensland and Tasmania, is preparing for a heightened period of activity. North Queensland lychees and Tasmanian cherries, emblematic of prosperity and good fortune in Asian traditions, are at the forefront of demand during these celebrations. The popularity of the Lunar New Year in Australia has led to an increased demand for these exotic fruits. Daniel Filipe of Fruitezy, a Sydney-based wholesaler, highlights the Lunar New Year as a critical period for marketing and planning, second only to Christmas in its importance. The demand for lychees and cherries has notably increased, driven by Australia's growing Asian community and a surge in tourists during this season.

Matthew Griggs from Lucaston Park Orchards explains the significant demand for Tasmanian cherries during this time, noting the perfect timing of the cherry harvest with the Lunar New Year celebrations. This timing ensures the freshness of the product from Tasmania to its primary market in China. The process from harvest to delivery in South-East Asia is notably efficient, taking three to four days. Tasmanian cherries are highly valued in China for their size, sweetness, and vibrant color. Zhongyue (Jack) Wang, an importer and seller of cherries in China, regards Tasmanian cherries as the best globally, emphasizing their flavor and suitability as gifts due to their auspicious red color.

However, the season has brought challenges for lychee producers in North Queensland, with early rainfall disrupting production. Larry Griffin from Simon George and Sons reported over 400 millimeters of rain in December, adversely affecting some crops. This has led to a significant increase in lychee prices, with some varieties selling for over $20 a kilogram, marking a nearly 40 percent price increase from the previous year. The adverse weather conditions have notably impacted the yield and quality of lychees, affecting the availability of premium products for the Lunar New Year and Christmas.

Source: ABC News

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