Official data shows 60% of Vermont apple crop survived severe weather

After experiencing unusually chilly temperatures in May and flooding in July, Vermont managed to hold onto roughly 60% of its crop. Apple quantity varies among individual…

Payzawat county plum growers enjoy success, shipping goods to Malaysia

Last month, plums from Payzawat county in Kashgar made their export debut as they were shipped to Malaysia. The plums grown in Xinjiang are known as Xinmei. Payzawat county is…

July 2023 saw drop in US fruit and berry imports

In July 2023, the amount of fruits and berries imported into the United States shrank dramatically to 915K tons, falling by -15.2% against the previous month. In general,…

Peaches no longer top Georgia's crop

Georgia might be widely known as the Peach State, but blueberries have slowly risen to become the state’s top fruit crop. The blueberry industry in Georgia now accounts for…

Washington state growers are trying out new pear varieties

With most of the 2023 crop harvested, growers and agriculture officials say Bartletts, Boscs and Anjous remain the three dominant types of pears grown in the Yakima Valley.…

British Columbia: 2023 weather will bring apple yields down about 15%

Apple growers in British Columbia are still picking their crops. However, early indications suggest that yields will be down about 15% this year. According to Glen Lucas,…

Pricing picking up on California melons

Supplies of cantaloupe and honeydew melons out of California look to be tightening up. “This week, there’s a change in the industry. We’re now getting a few more calls from other shippers asking if we have extra volume after covering our commitments and contracts to help them cover their commitments,”…

EastFruit

Uzbekistan to exceed 100,000 tons of watermelon exports for the first time

EastFruit experts have repeatedly drawn attention to Uzbekistan’s rapid increase fresh watermelon exports in 2022 and 2023. In 2022, the country exported 81.8 thousand tons of watermelons, which became a historical record, beating the previous one by 67%. In 2023 Uzbekistan has already exceeded this…

Spanish fruit cooperative Grupo Clasol merges with San Alfonso

Spanish fruit growers and suppliers Grupo Clasol and Cooperativa San Alfonso in Valencia have merged. This business combination creates an anticipated €120 mln revenue…

Higher altitudes keep Turkish apples safe from heatwave

The Turkish heatwave caused quite some issues in certain apple growing regions, but Alper Kerim, owner of Turkish fruit exporter Demir Fresh Fruits, states their orchards are at higher altitudes and were spared many of the issues: “For the new season, the growing period for Turkish apples was rather…

"Sustaining a share in Asian markets is difficult"

Sustaining a share in the Asian markets is a challenge for Egyptian pomegranate exporters, given the huge production of this fruit in Asia and the fierce competition. However, Egyptian exporters do not lack assets to establish themselves in many Asian markets, according to Amr Abdelhafiz, Managing…

"With the new apple production season, the demand for small fruits is growing."

The new season of early-ripening apples is now available on the market, and late-ripening varieties will be harvested in early October. Huasheng Fresh Fruit is mainly engaged in the cultivation and sales of apples in Shaanxi production areas. Mr. Woods Xu of the company is busy preparing for the new…

Chilean cherry blossom function heralds imminent start of 2023/24 season

Chile’s annual “Cherry Blossom” ceremony, hosted by the Asoex Cherry Committee, is considered the symbolic start of the season, but this year there is some trepidation due to the hotter than usual weather. According to Claudia Soler, Chairperson of the Cherry Committee, they still expect exports of 100…

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Quarantine pests found in melon and tomato shipments from Uzbekistan in the Orenburg region

On September 18 and 19, officials of the territorial department of Rosselkhoznadzor, identified quarantine pests in four batches of fresh melons received from Uzbekistan. Namely: the polyphagous humpback fly (Megaselia scalaris) and the melon fly (Myiopardalis pardalina). The total volume of contaminated…

Kashmir apple harvest strains cold storage availability

Most cold storage units for Kashmiri apple have been booked in advance this year and there is no space available to accommodate more growers. Growers from various areas of…

Demand for organic Lebanese apples and nuts exceeds supply

The Lebanese organic market has dropped since the latest crises, yet there are opportunities for organic growers thanks to Lebanon's proximity to a relatively large, wealthy purchasing base in the Gulf states. Agreen Organics exports a wide range of organic products, fresh or processed, plant or animal,…

On its 15th anniversary, Fruit Attraction 2023 breaks all records

Fruit Attraction will celebrate its 15th anniversary in style from October 3-5. The fair, which is being organized by IFEMA MADRID and FEPEX and will have Andalusia as its Guest Region, has recorded the largest participation in its history with 2,000 exhibiting companies from 56 countries, an area of…

Frequent storms and flooding worldwide calls for more resistant table grape varieties

There is no doubt that large scale climatic events that swing widely from drought to sudden flooding is wreaking havoc for fresh produce growers from around the world. This is especially true for table grapes that have traditionally been sensitive to even the slightest rain, with storms and floods often…

Far North grower forced to diversify crops due to strawberry shortage

Far North strawberry grower Kaikohe Berries is a joint venture between the two commercial arms of Te Rūnanga-ā-iwi o Ngāpuhi and the Far North District Council, with 12…

Polish apple exporters are still not able to ship large volumes to Egypt

It’s a frustrating time for Polish apple exporters who had Egypt as their main market. Mohamed Marawan, owner of Polish apple exporter Sarafruit, states there has been no progress with the situation in Egypt. “We’re currently in the midst of harvesting our apples. We managed to finish picking all the…

“Extra-large, very firm and crunchy blueberries preferred in China”

One of the reasons why Sekoya blueberries in China are so popular and often receive higher prices are due to their big size, great flavour next to a shelf life of between 45 to 60 days. This is according to Hans Liekens, value chain and retail manager of Sekoya, who had his hands full at the recent Asia…

Bayer expands its fruit and vegetables business to strawberries

Bayer today announced the expansion of its leading Fruits and Vegetables business to strawberries. With the acquisition of the strawberry assets of UK-based NIAB, Bayer will expand its focus on professional protected culture growers to meet the growing consumer and retail demand for year-round,…

Apples to be exported to UAE from Kurdistan Region

The Kurdistan Region is set to export apples from the mountainous areas of Barwari in Duhok to the United Arab Emirates. Apples from the Barwari region, well-known for their…

Plum harvest quite promising in Jiashi, northwest China

In northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the plum harvest is quite promising. Adila Ekber, a staff member of the Yuejia Plum Industrial Park in Jiashi county,…

Northeast Georgia farmer was able to save some of his peach crop

While most peach growers in the southern two-thirds of Georgia are dealing with up to 95% crop loss after a mid-March freeze, northeast Georgia farmer Drew Echols was able to…

One year later, P.E.I. apple growers focus on recovery from tropical storm Fiona

One year after tropical storm Fiona, P.E.I. apple orchard owners are still cleaning up, striving to minimize any potential damage from this year’s storm season. It’s not just…

Massachusetts cranberry growers look to tech solutions for climate concerns

Cranberry harvest is beginning in Massachusetts on a crop that looks to be average to good-sized. “As we get further along into harvest, the question is: how is it going to come together?” says Brian Wick, executive director of the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association (CCCGA), adding that harvest…

"The future of the Peruvian blueberry is in Asia"

According to Luis Miguel Vegas, the general manager of the Association of Blueberry Producers of Peru (Proarándanos), this will be a very difficult year for the production and…

Greater Shepparton City Council awards contract for Queensland Fruit Fly monitoring

Greater Shepparton City Council has awarded the contract for Queensland Fruit Fly trapping and monitoring, worth more than $230,000 to a local company. IK Caldwell AGnVET were…

“Wild blueberries contain twice as many antioxidants as cultivated blueberries”

Wild blueberries are native to Quebec and the Maritime provinces in Canada, but they also grow in the state Maine in the US. “We don’t have to plant the bushes, they just appear in this unique soil type,” says Jean-Pierre Senneville, President/CEO of Quebec Wild Blueberries. In Quebec, the wild…

A total of 67,368 packages of Autumn Royal grapes in California cold storage - 15 September 2023

On 15 September 2023, there was a total of 67,368 packages - bags, clamshells, plain packs, wrapped and other packages - of Autumn Royal grapes in cold storage in California.…

"Demand is so high that there is no need to stock grapes"

The second phase of the PGI grapes from Mazzarrone campaign, which mainly revolves around the Italia variety, is excellent. Thanks to favorable weather, bunches are uniform with particularly aromatic grapes boasting the typical muscat aftertaste. The Brix level is very high at between 20 and 23 degrees.…

St. Lawrence County apple grower not affected by Spring frost

The spring of 2023 saw some late frost, but why is this relevant now? It’s because it took a bite out of this year’s apple crop in much of New York state. However, in St.…

There has been a significant decrease in the prices of apples and grapes at Ukrainian supermarkets

In Ukrainian supermarkets, there is a significant decrease in prices currently. According to official information available as of September 17, the pricing strategy in…

High-quality fruits and vegetables are in short supply in the Russian Far East

Residents of the Russian Far East face different food-related challenges. The region's harsh climate and low population density affect agriculture. Experts note that the…

South Africa’s apple and pear exports to China show countertrend growth

Due to adverse weather events like hail and floods earlier in the year, Hortgro has revised its export forecasts for the 2023 season. The estimated export volume for apples is…

Can lab-grown fruit reduce methane-generation?

Scientists in New Zealand are attempting to create lab-grown fruit from plant cells, without the parts that are usually thrown away (like apple cores). The team of scientists…

Top 10 orchards in the US

The United States' first apple orchard was planted in 1625 near Boston's Beacon Hill. Today, there are more than 20,000 growers producing apples across all 50 states, according to the US Apple…

Raspberry grower predicts biggest season yet out of Central Mexico

It's the peak season for Naturipe Farms' proprietary raspberry varieties out of the Central Mexico growing region. This fall, the company is projected to have the strongest season on record for promotional volumes of its raspberries. The 2023-24 season will mark another year of exponential growth for the…

Expansion of premium stone fruit line up from the southern hemisphere

Pacific Trellis Fruit will add Donut Peaches and Extra Sweet nectarines this coming year to its inaugural offering of imported specialty plum varieties to create a full line of premium stone fruit during the Southern Hemisphere Season. The company is gearing up for the new high-flavor arrivals from Chile…

"We should be able to export more to Greece"

The new Polish apple season is underway, as Gala apples are being harvested right now. Jakub Krawczyk, export manager for Polish apple exporter Appolonia, states that they will soon start harvesting their second variety of apples of the season as well: “Right now, we are starting harvesting the apples.…

Peru's blueberry exports have decreased by 50% so far this season

According to information from Fresh Fruit, so far this season, Peru's blueberry exports have contracted by 50% over the same date last year, totaling 40,527 tons. "There have…

New-Zealand branded apple volumes increase in Asia for Mid-Autumn Festival

Rockit Global is gearing up for its biggest Mid-Autumn Festival yet, entering new Asian markets and with more Rockit™ apples than ever landing in stores for the peak sales season. Due to strong consumer demand, Rockit will celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam for the first time this year, and combined…

"We are expecting some nice hot weather with cool nights which is perfect for growing grapes"

It has been a tough few years for grape growers around the globe with unpredictable and wet weather patterns, growers in Australia have not escaped this but are looking forward to a better year ahead. The Australian grape harvest will start in late October in Queensland with the main export season…

USDA

US peach and nectarine production 2023/24 forecast down to 574,000 tons

U.S. peach and nectarine production for 2023/24 is forecast down to 574,000 metric tons. Production has been fairly stable during the last 5 years, range‐bound between 650,000‐710,000 tons, but weather events in top producing states will drive supplies below this range in 2023/24. California’s peach crop…

“Tonik and Canopy apples meet real demands from both growers and consumers”

On the 25th of October, Dalival and its IFO research and development station will present their new Tonik and Canopy apple varieties, as well as their latest M200 rootstock innovation, at the IFO site in Seiches sur le Loir. According to Thierry Ligonnière, managing director of Dalival, “these…

Cyclone Gabrielle ends Esk Valley orchard investment scheme

Rural investment firm MyFarm is liquidating an Esk Valley orchard fund whose assets were severely damaged in cyclone Gabrielle. MyFarm raised over $3 million from wholesale…

Auction of Golden and Red apples in full swing with interested exporters

The harvesting of Golden and Red Delicious apples for the partners of Asta Frutta Alto Adige started one week ago and the first data are promising. "Harvesting is proceeding without problems and the past two nights with low temperatures are generating excellent color," reports Markus Tscholl, coordinator…

Indian government hopes to allay concern over cut 'retaliatory' duty on US apples

India’s recent move to remove additional ‘retaliatory’ duty on eight products from the United States, including apples and walnuts, would not have any negative impact on the…

USDA analysis of US blueberry and strawberry markets emphasizes import pressures

Demand for blueberries and strawberries in the US has increased in recent years, and so has fierce competition to the domestic market. A new report from USDA’s Economic…

Nova Scotia tree fruit growers reassured following Tropical Storm Lee

Nova Scotia apple growers are breathing a sigh of relief following the weekend’s Tropical Storm Lee which, going into the weekend, was expected to be Hurricane Lee. “Things are better than we expected them to be,” said Emily Lutz, executive director of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association “I’m…

“Blueberry market is hot with high prices in China right now”

Blueberry prices in China are considered “hot on the market right now” due to lower and delayed volumes coming from the world leaders in the exports of this fruit, namely Peru. This is according Yanitza Curonisy, business manager of China operations for the Peruvian grower and exporter Agrovision. She…

EastFruit

Ukraine is determined to become a global leader in frozen raspberry exports

According to EastFruit analysts, Ukraine has recently taken a huge step towards becoming the world leader in exports of frozen raspberries, which is amazing as it is happening despite the Russian aggression in Ukraine. Over the past five seasons, the volume of frozen raspberry exports from Ukraine has…

“Throughout September, we will continue supplying Spanish watermelons to all our customers ”

The demand for watermelons has been reactivated in Europe, as temperatures have reached over 30 degrees in much of the continent, giving a boost to the Spanish open ground watermelon campaign at this time when, despite the approaching end of the season, there is still a significant supply available.…

J&K National Conference hopes for compensation for damaged apple crops

This weekend, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference expressed concern over the extensive damages caused to standing apple crops in Shopian district due to an overnight…

Storm Hilary hitting Tulare and Kern counties might mean low grape supplies, high prices across the US

Grape growers in Kern and Tulare counties suffered major crop losses last month when heavy rains and strong winds from Tropical Storm Hilary slammed vineyards as they neared…

India to reduce tariffs on more products from the US

India is taking further action to reduce tariffs on a variety of American goods. The action comes as a resolution to several disputes at the World Trade Organization.…

"They have no added sugars or flavor enhancers, and they're not transgenic"

Cotton Candy grapes are all the rage thanks to their cotton candy flavor. Dietitian Fran Susín tried these grapes and spoke about her experience on TikTok. "Contrary to what…

"Next season, we want to introduce Limelon to the French, Spanish, and Portuguese markets"

The 2023 melon season will make history as the most erratic, says Hans van den Heuvel of the Dutch company HillFresh International. That is due to the harsh weather conditions. "Despite that, we're delighted with how our Limelon performed this year," he begins. HillFresh introduced this surprisingly sweet-tasting…

Very encouraging start to the apple campaign in Alpes de Haute-Durance

Famous for their quality labels, the Haute-Durance apples are grown by 170 producers on a total surface area of 2,600 ha (95 ha for Gala PGI and 1,200 ha for Golden PGI) in the French departments of Hautes-Alpes and Alpes de Haute-Provence. The 2023 campaign has just started and this year already looks…

International Pink Lady Alliance 22nd conference fosters positive outlook for the future

The International Pink Lady Alliance NPC (IPLA) successfully concluded their 22nd annual conference, held on 4 and 5 September 2023 in Hong Kong. From left to right : Juan Martin Rosauer, Calla du Toit, Peter Richardson, Jon Durham (front),Didier Crabos (back), Philippe Toulemonde (front), Rob Meihuizen…

APHIS removes the Oriental Fruit Fly Quarantine in Fountain Valley, Orange County

On August 19, 2023, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) removed the Oriental fruit fly…

Lebanon has an excellent climate for apples

Small-scale farming is still dominant in Lebanon. More local and overseas investment in the professionalization of horticulture is needed and factors such as the favorable climate and fertile soil are attracting these investors. But the current model also offers opportunities, says Moussa M. Zgheib. Apple orchard in the mountains "We source our fruit, mainly grapes…

"Vietnamese willing to pay well for quality, imported fruit"

The Flemish Agricultural Marketing Board (VLAM) was recently wholly focused on promoting Belgian food products in Vietnam. That was during a trade mission led by Minister President Jan Jambon. From September 10 - 16, some 40 business leaders and export managers represented Flemish exporting companies in…

"In these pear harvesting conditions, your organization must be perfect"

In the Netherlands, Bijl's Fruit finished harvesting its new crop of Conference pears a couple of weeks ago. "The extreme heat made it nerve-wracking for a while, but luckily, we made a plan and got everything in on time," begins Wim Bijl. The grower trusted his instincts during the harvest. "We work on the…

Monsoon hits fruit growers hard in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh

An intense monsoon has caused considerable damage to the horticulture sector in Kullu district this year, with fruit growers of the district suffering huge losses. Apple crops…

"We sold out of everything."

Despite a lower average yield, a late start to the harvest and lower sales, the watermelon season in Sardinia seems to have been positive. Salvatore Lotta (pictured below), commercial director of Agricola Campidanese, a growers' organization under the L'Orto di Eleonora brand, shares his opinion on the past season. "There are…

New machines allow Portuguese blueberry producer to open second revenue stream

In just five years since its start-up, Logofruits has become the largest blueberry producer in Portugal and one of the largest in Europe. As well as growing and packing fruit for well-known supermarket chains in northern Europe and Spain, Logofruits also provides packing services for wholesalers from…

Exports of Chinese fruits and vegetables to Russia increased in 2023

The export of Chinese vegetables and fruits to Russia from January to July 2023 amounted to 90,000 tons, which is 102.8% more than the previous year. "In monetary terms, the…

This year, the plum harvest in Moldova will amount to 85 thousand tons

Specialists estimate that this year's plum harvest in Moldova will reach 85,000 tons, returning to normalcy after last year's poor yield. Out of this harvest, 70,000 tons are…

Week 35 price for peaches in the EU stood at €116 / 100 kg

The weekly prices for peaches in the EU (ex-packaging station) stood at €116 / 100 kgs. At 1.129.000 tons, Italy was the largest EU producer of peaches and nectarines among the member states last year. Click here to view the data sheet. Source: agriculture.ec.europa.eu

Tight blueberry supplies give strawberry demand a boost

Supplies of strawberries out of California are sufficient for this time of season. “However, the demand for berries is really good still,” says Jim Grabowski of Well Pict. He notes that strawberry supplies do look comparable to this time last year. Right now, berries are coming from Watsonville-Salinas as…

Earlier start of table grape shipments from Brazil and Peru to the US

Under normal circumstances, California’s table grape production peaks this time of year. However, volumes hitting the market are much lower this season due to the impact of Hurricane Hilary. In order to fill a void in California, table grape growing countries in South America are jumping on early.…

Spain is no longer the EU's top melon supplier after sales plummeted by 45.96%

According to data compiled by Hortoinfo from the statistical services of Euroestacom (ICEX-Eurostat), Spain is no longer the leading supplier of melons to European Union…

Peru's Matías blueberries reach the Indian market

The Inka's Berries company announced that it has managed to export blueberries of the Matias variety to the Indian market for the first time. "This new destination marks a…

Move aside blueberry, there’s a new competitor fruit lurking

The superfruit of blueberries has new competition – AlgaBerry and JadeBerry - which is essentially neutral-tasting algae specially grown in a tank. This together with the veggie caviar produced from these berries, are the new inventions of Dr. Fan Lu, a Chinese national living in the U.S. He is the CEO…

The volume of Autumn fruits is gradually increasing, transaction volume of durian may be lower than in previous years.

Two weeks before the Mid-Autumn Festival (September 29), some gift boxes begin to be sold more, including soft-seeded pomegranates, apples, and Shine Muscat grapes. However, at the same time, the sales volume of many fruits remained flat, and the festival effect was not reflected. Some merchants believe…

Investors wanted for highly profitable Lebanese grape exports

Whereas Lebanese export grapes usually find their way to the Gulf States or Asia, Natagri's Fadi Sarkis focuses steadfastly on Europe. "I often visit the trade shows in Berlin and Madrid to get better acquainted with European market requirements. My company is one of the few in Lebanon exporting grapes to that commercially exciting destination," Fadi begins proudly. Bu…

Chile estimated to export 100 million boxes of cherries

The Association of Fruit Exporters of Chile (Asoex) It is estimated that 100 million boxes of cherries will be shipped around the world in the next cycle, mostly to Asia,…

"Belgium holds the key to the new pear season"

Positivism currently reigns in Belgium regarding the upcoming Conference pear season. Still, carefully considering decisions, especially with marketing, is vital, so Ruben Claes of the New Green cooperative explains. "I think Belgium holds next season's key, but to get the best prices, it's essential to…

Kissabel® apple crop in Europe increases by 40%

Kissabel® apples return to the markets from mid-September with the Northern Hemisphere crop. European production of the range with coloured flesh in shades from pink to intense red will rise by 40%, with a crop of 3,500 tonnes. Harvesting of the pink-flesh Kissabel Jaune and Orange varieties was started by…

Nova Scotia apple growers pick ahead for storm Lee

On Friday, growers in Eastern Canada were on watch and preparing for the onset of what was then called Hurricane Lee. While rain is something to watch, what apple growers and shippers such as Van Meekeren Farms in Kentville, Nova Scotia really are looking out for are wind gusts and at press time, they…

World's most expensive melons still fetching high prices at auction

While melons in the market or supermarket should not break the bank, there's one variety that may leave you astounded by its price. This unique melon is exclusively grown in Japan and goes by the name "Yubari King." It's believed to be the world's priciest fruit, cultivated solely in Yubari city on…

Advanced techniques lead to blackberries that are larger and sweeter

Current cultivation techniques ensure that British blackberries are available from April until November, enjoying a 36-week season. The UK berry industry is now worth £1.7…

New England apple growers prepare for Hurricane Lee

New England apple growers are awaiting the arrival of Hurricane Lee, which could lead to damaged trees in the region. Its impacts are expected to be felt over the weekend,…

Harvest of PDO grapes kicks off

On September 7th, the Chasselas de Moissac union launched the new campaign for the famous PDO grapes, announcing a drop in production for 2023 but very high quality levels. In terms of communication, the association has decided to partner up with the Périgord walnut PDO, to target millennials, participate in events and redesign…

Another almost record crop of apples for Michigan

Michigan is seeing an apple crop that is coming close to last year’s record crop for the state. “The crop is looking very good. We’ve been fortunate enough to come back with another nice crop that is probably 90 percent of last year’s record crop,” says Scott Swindeman of Applewood Fresh Growers LLC in…

"International relations strengthen the fruit and vegetable sector."

The attendance at Macfrut's Italian fruit and vegetable fair this year was excellent, with many foreign exhibitors and visitors. On top of that, this has been one of Macfrut's goals for several years, that of becoming an ever-international fair. The next edition will take place from 8 to 10 May 2024 in…

Despite Argentina’s challenges exporter grows volumes in Asia and other markets

Argentina as a country has several challenges but this is not stopping the producer and exporter Grupo Prima from growing their apples and pears volumes in the Asian and other markets. According to Marcelo Galardini, Commercial director of Grupo Prima, in Argentina: “We are growing in Asia and China.…

Late Lebanese grape varieties for an empty European market

Saudi Arabia placed an embargo on Lebanese agricultural product imports in 2021. Since then, Agrotica's 45,000 peach trees have become virtually worthless. "In two months, I'll uproot and replace them with grape vines," begins Mehydin Kazoun, manager of the cultivation and export company in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley. Mehydin sees no sales opportunities for that stone fruit. "W…

Morocco quake brings new hardships for small-scale farmers

Drought and extreme weather have long taken a toll on the North African kingdom's growers, but the quake in Morocco is creating new challenges. "We thought hail was our worst…

Egyptian pomegranate campaign to start with lower volumes than last season

The Egyptian pomegranate campaign starts soon, with yields lower than last season, according to Mohammad Hassan, export sales manager of Al Gamal for import and export. Mohammad said, "This year's yields have been impacted by climate disruptions, mainly thermal variations and generally higher…

'Terre D'Uva,' the Italian Canicattì Grape Festival

Terre d'Uva is a special event celebrating the culture and land it represents. Over 20 Italian journalists explored the world of Italian grapes grown in Canicattì during a press tour. These grapes are a Protected Geographical Indication and were showcased in a warehouse by the Consortium of Canicattì Igp…

First German table grapes are another competitor

The Sicilian medium-late organic grape campaign is reaching its peak. These prestigious varieties come from the Sicilian hilly hinterland, where the fruits have the possibility of soaking up the sun throughout a summer season characterized by hot yet breezy days. However, the best soil and weather…

"Paraguayos are no longer special"

Despite temperatures that are still extremely summery at times, the stone fruit season is now nearing its end, as Enrique Pedros-Frank tells us. "We still have peaches, nectarines and Paraguayos from Spain available, which we can still offer for about a week. Demand for Paraguayos this year has been much…

Interest in Brazilian fruit grows in Asian countries

Last week, the Brazilian Association of Producers and Exporters of Fruit and Derivatives (Abrafrutas) participated in Asia Fruit Logistica, one of the largest fresh and agricultural products fairs in Asia, which brought together the main players from the entire global fresh value chain in Hong Kong. Ten…

"It's a great way to create some awareness for the craft"

This Sunday, September 17, the Day of Agriculture will take place in Belgium. On that day, organized by Boerenbond and Landelijke Gilden, growers and farmers open their farms to the general public to let them see the ins and outs of running an agricultural business. "It's a great way to create some…

California’s grape loss post-Hilary may put pressure on imports earlier

“Supplies of grapes are light, light and more light.” So says Ray England of DJ Forry of the current availability of California grapes. As has been reported, the more limited supplies of grapes out of the state are Hurricane Hilary related--recently, the California Table Grape Commission reported that an…

Indian duty of 50% and 100% continues to be applicable on US apples and walnuts

With the decision to resolve six outstanding World Trade Organisation (WTO) disputes between the US and India through Mutually Agreed Solutions in June 2023, India has…

Myanmar exported over 113,000 tons of watermelon to China in first eight months of 2023

According to the Fruit Commodity Exchange at Muse border post, watermelons exported from Myanmar to China via border trade route amounted to over 113,000 tons between January…

USDA commemorates 100 Years of Contributions to the grape industry

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center (SJVASC) has celebrated 100 years of cooperative…

Egypt to implement tough measures to fight IPR infringement on exported fruit

Egypt’s Central Administration for Plant Quarantine has implemented tough measures to fight IPR infringement on exported fruit such as table grapes. Authorities there will use DNA testing to stop illegal shipments at source in response to repetitive cases. Three months ago, the Customs authorities in Italy…

Inspection of the Dutch pear value chain in Thailand

The auditor from the Department of Agriculture (DOA), Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Thailand officially conducted the inspection on the Dutch pear value chain from September 8-10, 2023. The inspection by a Thai auditor is part of the market access protocol for exporting pears from the…

Japan ranked as the world's sixth largest importer of fresh fruit in 2022

In 2022 Japan was the world's sixth largest importer of fresh fruit - relying on imports for around one-third of total domestic supply. The United States was the fifth largest supplier of fresh fruits to Japan with five percent of the market. The United States was the leading supplier of lemons and…

"We're about 6 to 8 years away from having the potential to compete against Chile's cherry"

Gabriela Mercedes Crespo, head of research on new crops at Agualima SAC and a researcher at Concytec, said that despite the lower number of cold hours, cherry studies were…

Israelis expected to consume 15,000 tons of apples this Rosh Hashanah

This year, Israel is producing fewer apples than usual: 105,000 tons compared to the 110,000 tons in 2022. On the day before Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year), the demand…

Apple farmers urge J&K Lieutenant Governor to restart MIS in Kashmir

The J&K chapter of the Apple Farmers’ Federation of India has asked J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s to intervene to restart the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for…

Lebanese grape cultivation is switching to seedless varieties

Almost 90% of the 59,000 tons of grapes produced in Lebanon has been exported in 2021, figures of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reveal. It’s a clear indication of the product's high quality. Nonetheless, that volume is modest compared to Greece's 270,000 tons, Spain's 300,000 tons, and Italy's 720,000 tons (USDA figures). Despite its small scale, it is well worth taking a c…

There will be smaller quantities of Italian strawberries this Christmas

There are a number of farms in southern Italy that have made the drastic decision to eliminate early September potted strawberry transplants from their production program. Loris Gentile, CEO of the Gentile Group and president of Fruplant Lab Italia, talks about this and expects a very low volume of…

“The market should be flooded with blueberries right now and, instead, there is a significant shortage”

"There is a shortage of blueberries in the market. So far this season, Peru's exports are said to have fallen by almost 40% because temperatures in some parts of the country have been higher than normal, and we cannot forget that Peruvian blueberries are the ones supplying the main markets in the world.…

Broad participation of Moroccan producers and businessmen at XXVIII International Blueberry Seminar

A broad participation of Moroccan producers and businessmen and numerous international assistance, in an atmosphere of fraternity and respect, has been the characteristic of the XXVIII International Blueberry Seminar which is carried out in the premises of the Hotel Les Dunes d'Or Center De Congrès, in…

"Although still in the early stages, we are confident and assured of the quality offered by our vine growers."

After experiencing difficulties in the Italian grape sector last season, especially for seedless varieties, the growers' organization Apoc has decided to strengthen its sales network with the Uvitaly project. With a turnover of €40 million from grape sales alone, Apoc remains the largest growers'…

As harvest starts, Nova Scotia apple growers hope for a good season

The apple harvest is about to begin for Nova Scotia growers. Janet Chappel, of CAP Farms in Grafton, who is also president of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers’ Association: “This…

Sainsbury's largest purchaser of British apples sold to UK supermarkets by BAPL growers in August 2023

Every month, British Apples and Pears collates data from British Apple & Pear growers on the quantity of British apples they sold to UK supermarkets. The latest data is below. Sainsbury has just overtaken Aldi as the largest purchaser of British apples sold to UK supermarkets by BAPL growers in August…

Demand for California crops increases

Despite the fact that significant areas of farmland were submerged this spring, prices for Valley products are rising as California's producers and soil once again show their…

Large pack sizes contribute to blueberry shortage in US market

The domestic blueberry season is rapidly coming to a close. The Pacific Northwest is in its last shipping week and Michigan has about two more weeks left to the season. “From both regions, volumes are very, very light,” says Evan Pence with Always Fresh Farms. With the domestic season ending, the…

California's peach crop to exceed last year’s production

Californian producers of peaches will harvest a larger crop than last year, according to a report by their industry association. The USDA forecasts California state's freestone crop that is grown for the fresh m…

How strawberries and blueberries have evolved

Fruits are vital to consumer diets and are an important part of the U.S. agricultural industry. Two berries—strawberries and blueberries—are among the most important fruits.…

Photo Report: Asia Fruit Logistica 2023

Asia Fruit Logistica took place in Hong Kong again for the first time since 2019. It was deemed a success by many exhibitors and attendees despite closing a day earlier due to heavy rain and flooding in the city. Click here to see the photo report. More than 700 exhibitors from 42 countries and regions showcased…

Peruvian grape exporter looking forward to serving new Japanese market

The Peruvian table grape industry is keen to have their first full export season to Japan since gaining full market access earlier this year. Andre Fatorre, sales manager at El Pedregal Peru: “We are going to start exporting to Japan that has just opened up for Peru in April this year.” Andre Fatorre,…

Late snow in the Boland as country prepares for El Niño

More rain today for the Western Cape which has appreciated the few days of sunshine in between cold, rainy spells when bees can finally venture into orchards (where they are furiously working and even ill-tempered with hunger), but producers say they're looking ahead at the possible effects of a below…

More fresh pomegranates have been imported into the Amur Region from China

The first week of September saw the delivery of approximately 420 tons of fruits and vegetables from China to the Amur Region through the Kani-Kurgan border checkpoint. All…

EW Group to acquire Spanish berry breeder Planasa

EW Group, a German-based strategic family Holding, has signed an agreement for the takeover of Planasa Group from international private equity firm Cinven and the Spanish…

Candy Snaps grape season extended by several weeks

BLOOM FRESH International, created by the merger of SNFL Group (Special New Fruit Licensing) and International Fruit Genetics, LLC (IFG), is pleased to unveil the latest addition to its acclaimed Candy Snaps™ line. The newly patented table grape varietal, known as IFG Forty-one, will enhance the Candy…

Somalia will start providing fruit to Ethiopia

After the signing of a bilateral trade agreement last week, Somalia is getting ready to formally start exporting fruit products to neighboring Ethiopia. The trade deal is…

Jumla district exports 21,000 tons of apples

Jumla district apple growers exported more than 21,000 tons of apples so far this year. Acting Chief of Agriculture Development Office, Jumla, Ganesh Bahadur Adhikari said…

Grape seed found in Western Anatolia sheds light on ancient viticulture

The remnants of a grape seed, dating back 3,500 years, have been discovered in a recent archaeological excavation at the Aşağıseyit Mound site in western Anatolia's Denizli.…

Soluna apples makes debut in Hong Kong with tasting experience

During the launch of Soluna™ Apples throughout July and August via TVB a special gift box was available with online sales exploding. The WA Farm Direct working with their exclusive partner in Hong Kong, Top Weal, launched the next phase of their marketing plans for Soluna apples in that city. Commencing on…