"Data shows a remarkable growth of 30-50% in Chilean cherries arriving at the Chinese market by sea this season. Larger sizes, particularly the 3J specification, are trending upwards, while 4J and 5J sizes have consistently increased year by year." Shenzhen Changhong Logistics Co., Ltd., a provider of services such as imported fruit booking, agency, customs clearance, and logistics, shared insights into the cherry market. According to Manager Zhu of Changhong Logistics, the company has witnessed significant developments in the sector.
"Starting from November, over 40 cargo ships carrying Chilean cherries have arrived this season, with a few vessels continuing deliveries after the Spring Festival," Zhu reported. Major ports in southern China, including Shenzhen, Nansha, and Hong Kong, receive a substantial volume of cherries, while Shanghai and Tianjin serve as key entry points in central and northern China. Notably, the shipment volume between southern ports and Shanghai remains relatively balanced, indicating the consistent popularity of cherries in the Chinese market.
Zhu emphasized the role of logistics and customs declaration data in tracking trends and changes in imported products. "We also handle other imported fruits such as durian, mangosteen, grapes, citrus, and kiwi," he noted. Among these, the import volumes of grapes and New Zealand kiwis have been steadily increasing in recent years.
However, premium fruits like cherries and kiwis face stricter import regulations, resulting in longer customs clearance times. "Since December last year, customs authorities have tightened inspection standards for imported fruits like durian and longan, introducing new indicators. These upgraded inspection and quarantine standards enhance food safety, and we ensure timely communication with our customers about regulatory changes," he added.
According to Zhu, customs declaration volumes have largely returned to pre-pandemic levels. However, logistical challenges persist due to factors such as dockworker strikes, geopolitical tensions, and regional disruptions like the Suez Canal and Red Sea crises. Additionally, the reopening of docks worldwide after the pandemic has intensified industry competition, leading to reduced charges and new operational challenges.
In response, many companies have embraced digital transformation and incorporated intelligent equipment to optimize logistics and customs clearance processes. These advancements aim to streamline operations and improve efficiency in the long run.
Early on January 17, Changhong Logistics oversaw the arrival of a Chilean cherry charter ship carrying more than 200 containers of cherries, including popular varieties such as Santina, Lapins, Brooks, and Rainier. Manager Zhu highlighted the diversity of suppliers involved, ranging from online platforms and high-end supermarkets to first-tier distributors and wholesale market partners like Hengjin Supply Chain.
Changhong Logistics specializes in domestic and international transportation and customs clearance services for imported fruits. Its overseas service areas span Chile, Peru, South Africa, and Malaysia, while domestic terminals include Nansha, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Qingdao. With an on-site team stationed at ports, the company ensures smooth customs clearance and delivery to customers' frozen warehouses or wholesale markets.