NZ: Kiwi orchards value increased by $150,000 in 2016
In order to meet global demand for the SunGold variety, Zespri has been issuing licenses to grow the fruit which can cost growers up to $200,000/ha. With the rise in demand, Zespri is looking to license 400ha of land for SunGold production in 2017 in a move that is expected to help boost kiwifruit exports by $500m within the next 3 years.
Zespri's chief operating officer Simon Limmer said the co-operative interpreted the sales in light of the reception SunGold had enjoyed with customers and consumers around the world.
"We're forecasting SunGold volumes to double over the next five years to 90 million trays to meet this strong demand, backed by up investment in marketing and in-market development. Orchard sales reflect the confidence of the New Zealand industry in this great new product," Limmer said.
source: stuff.co.nz
