With less than two weeks to go until the Chinese New Year, fruit traders are entering the peak stocking period. Market activity has surged, with foot traffic in fruit markets significantly higher than in the previous two weeks. Cherry sales are gaining momentum, and market conditions are on the rise.
According to traders, prices for Chilean cherries have been climbing steadily since the start of this week, marking four to five consecutive days of increases. Price fluctuations are even noticeable at different cabinet opening times during the day, but overall sales remain strong. Currently, the Lapins and Bing varieties dominate the market in terms of arrival volumes. Lapins have seen a price increase of approximately 10-15% compared to last week, while other varieties such as Kodia, Regina, and Bing have experienced even more significant price hikes. Some purchasing traders noted that while consumer market sales have yet to surge, rising procurement costs require careful consideration. Others mentioned that despite the recent price increases, prices are still under pressure due to weaker market conditions earlier in the season.
Left: Fruit market sees huge increase in traffic; Right: Chilean cherries
Blueberries are also experiencing a notable market trend. A trader specializing in imported blueberries reported higher prices for Chilean blueberries this year, driven by increased overall demand. Peruvian blueberries have seen a slight price rise this week due to holiday-related demand. In the past, January was dominated by imported blueberries, with Chinese-grown blueberries arriving mainly in February. This year, however, Chinese blueberries from various production regions have entered the market earlier, with quantities significantly higher than in previous years. Chinese blueberries are reportedly tastier this year and priced lower than in the past, but they remain more expensive than imported blueberries. Despite this, the increased supply of domestic blueberries has had little impact on imported blueberry sales, as the latter cater to a different customer base and maintain a price advantage.
Left: Australian plums; Right: Chilean cherry plums
The influx of imported stone fruits continues to rise. Chilean cherry plums, introduced last month, have recently seen a gradual increase in supply. Prices have fallen from approximately ￥380 per box at launch to around ￥350per box. Traders noted that the initial selling prices were comparable to previous years. Australian plums arrived earlier in the season and are currently being praised for their excellent taste.
Meanwhile, Thai coconuts are seeing lower prices compared to previous years. Despite a seasonal production dip that typically leads to higher prices, this year's increase is relatively modest. Large Thai coconuts are selling for about ￥100 per box, which represents a 10-20% price reduction from prior years.
Left: Chilean nectarines; Right: Imported apple gift boxes
In anticipation of the Chinese New Year, fruit gift boxes have become highly popular. Traders selling imported apples and kiwis report moderate pricing and steady sales, with the past ten days marking the peak period for business gift purchases. Demand has remained robust this week, highlighting the continued appeal of fruit gift boxes as business presents.