The Dragon Boat Festival holiday begins next Saturday, and its impact on the market is starting to show, particularly for apples.
According to traders, apple sales picked up from Thursday, with prices seeing a slight increase—gift boxes, in particular, are selling well. New Zealand Gala apples are currently priced around US$44.40 per box. Traders noted that the limited volume of arrivals and the scarcity of high-quality batches have led to a continuous weekly price increase. With improved taste and the influence of the upcoming holiday, prices of Queen apples have gradually rebounded to about US$50 per box. Most apple gift boxes feature Queen apples. However, traders also mentioned that while some higher-priced varieties not packaged as gifts are available, they are selling at a slower pace.
Left: Imported apple gift boxes; Right: South African grapefruits
In the imported citrus market, prices for South African grapefruit have fallen by about 10%–15% compared to last week due to increased volume. Most boxes are priced between US$30.60 and US$31.90, with some even below US$27.80. Traders indicated that another large shipment is expected soon, which may push prices down further. A small volume of South African lemons has also arrived. The opening price is relatively high, and with Chinese lemons still available at more competitive prices, sales of South African lemons have been sluggish. U.S. oranges are nearing the end of their season, and as arrivals taper off, prices remain firm.
Left: Thai durians; Right: Bayberries
Durian supply continues to rise, leading to a decline in market prices. Many buyers are currently cautious and holding off on purchasing. For Thai Monthong durians (A6 grade), the current price for high-quality batches is about US$97.20–US$108.30 per box. Traders noted that although overall market performance is weak, top-quality products are still moving steadily.
The supply of imported young coconuts is also increasing. Traders said that while more shipments have arrived, sales have been relatively slow, resulting in a noticeable price drop compared to last week. Young Thai coconuts are now selling at around US$10.40 per box, while Vietnamese ones are slightly cheaper at about US$9.45 per box.
Thai mangosteens
The Peruvian avocado market has remained relatively steady in recent weeks. According to some traders, major distribution channels and tea shops have yet to begin large-scale purchasing, and avocado-based drinks have not been widely introduced this season. Sales are expected to pick up as temperatures continue to rise.
Sales of Thai mangosteens have been strong. The A3 grade is currently priced at around US$22.20 per box. Traders noted that this is lower than the same period last year, when prices exceeded US$27.80. They anticipate that prices may rise soon due to a potential decline in supply from Thailand.
Chinese peaches
The variety and volume of domestic fruits in the market have increased. Peaches from various regions are now being harvested. Traders say it's still early in the season, and the fruit needs more time to develop optimal flavor. Xinjiang apricots have also entered the market in limited quantities. The current offerings are small in size and priced slightly lower than the same period last year. Golden Diamond pineapples are reaching the end of their season, with prices falling compared to earlier in the year, now at about US$10.40 per box. Traders dealing in a range of Chinese fruits mentioned that blueberries are currently the top seller. This year's supply is large, prices are lower than in the past, and overall quality and taste are good, contributing to strong sales performance.
