Zespri has released the final numbers concerning the kiwifruit sector; these show that total global revenue from fruit sales for 2022/23 was $3.92 billion, down 3% on the record result in the previous season. Global sales volumes were also down, from 201.5 million to 183.5 million trays.
According to Zespri, the value of kiwifruit lost because of quality issues in 2022/23 was $534 million. This is well up from the $307 million in the previous season. Furthermore, increased costs also reduced grower returns with the return per tray for Zespri Green in 22/23 $5.78, compared to $6.35 the previous year, while returns for Sun-Gold were $9.97, down from $11.51 in 21/22.
Zespri chief executive Dan Mathieson says the results are indicative of what’s been a very difficult period for many primary industries, with growers facing challenges relating to the labor shortage, the ongoing impacts of Covid-19, the climate and rising costs.
Mathieson says the results illustrate the importance of the industry’s efforts to improve quality, which remains a key driver in delivering stronger returns in future years.
Source: ruralnewsgroup.co.nz