The imported apple season in China is nearing its end. As supply gradually decreases, prices have recently rebounded compared with earlier in the season. "This year's market performance for imported apples has declined slightly compared to previous years, with a short-term downturn, but overall it remains stable," said Mr. Lyons Lee of Guizhou Shouyang Agricultural Products Co., Ltd., who shared insights on this season. The company currently focuses on apples from New Zealand and South Africa.
"Gala is the best-performing variety, with consistently strong demand. This year, domestic production of Gala apples has been limited, while imported Gala apples maintain stable quality and reasonable prices at origin, making them popular in the market. Although prices are slightly lower than last year due to overall market conditions, they are still relatively satisfactory. To meet demand, producers have increased shipments to China, but supply continues to fall short, and arrivals have tapered off earlier than in previous years. At present, new arrivals are relatively limited."
"New Zealand Queen apples are of excellent quality, but the main challenge is the high proportion of large-sized fruit, which has slowed sales. Nearly half of this year's Queen apples are in large sizes, such as #70, #80, and #90, while the market shows a stronger preference for small and medium-sized fruit. On the other hand, high-end premium apples such as Dazzle continue to perform well. With their sweet, crisp, juicy, and flavorful texture, they are well-received in the market. Quality has remained consistent, so prices are firm and sales are steady."
"South African Fuji apples, however, have underperformed this season. The first reason is inconsistent quality upon arrival, with some batches showing problems such as black spots and a stinging taste. Second, the Chinese market tends to prefer striped Fuji apples, but most of this year's arrivals have been solid red, leading to weaker market acceptance. While Fuji sales have been softer, overall performance is still better than last year. Last year, South African Fuji apples experienced a period of low-price sales, which helped expand their market presence and build consumer recognition. This year, the delayed production season caused an early shortage of arrivals, driving up prices and triggering a buying surge. However, as supply increased mid-season, sales momentum slowed." Lyons added that smaller-sized apples have become increasingly popular in recent years because they better fit consumer dietary habits and offer greater value, giving South African Fuji apples a certain competitive edge despite challenges.
"The Mid-Autumn Festival is peak season for apples. This year, it falls later than usual, giving apples a longer sales window. We are now preparing for festival sales," Lyons said.
Guizhou Shouyang Agricultural Products Co., Ltd. is a subsidiary of Shouyang Fruit. Shouyang Fruit supplies both imported and domestic fruits through wholesale markets, major supermarkets, and specialty chain stores. The company will participate in the China International Fruit Expo(China Fruit) in Shanghai from August 27–29 at booth E7D5, and will also attend Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong from September 3–5.
