A large volume of Chilean cherries arrived by air this week, causing prices to decline overall compared with last week. For example, a 2.5kg × 2 (two-in-one) pack of Santina cherries in 3J size is now priced at ¥560–590 per box, with higher-quality batches still exceeding ¥600 per box; the smaller 2.5kg boxes are around ¥270 per box. According to traders, cherry shipments have been steadily increasing since last week, and sales have been strong previously. However, as arrivals surged, downstream sales failed to keep pace, resulting in a noticeable slowdown. Buyers have also begun purchasing smaller quantities, further intensifying downward pressure on prices.
Chilean cherries
In terms of quality, traders reported that overall fruit firmness is good, better than during the same period in the past two years. The main issues observed are inconsistent coloring in some batches (either too light or too dark) and occasional moisture buildup inside the packaging.
Australian nectarines and peaches have already entered the market, with prices lower than during the same period last year. Traders noted that although it is still early in the season and the fruit can be slightly tart, overall quality and flavor are better than in previous years. Sales, however, remain slow, and traders expect that current consumer spending habits will continue to limit demand at this price level.
Australian peaches and nectarines
As for blueberries, arrivals of Peruvian fruit have increased over the past two weeks, leading to a slight decline in prices. Currently, 14mm+ and 16mm+ blueberries are selling for ¥80–110 per box, while 18mm+ blueberries are around ¥115 per box, though the supply of the larger size is limited. It is understood that both small (12mm+) and large (18mm+) Peruvian blueberries are relatively scarce this year. Traders added that demand for 12mm+ blueberries remains stable, as they are commonly used for making desserts and jam. Blueberry prices have rebounded slightly over the past two days.
Imported (left) and (right) Chinese blueberries
Yunnan blueberries are gradually entering the market, with prices varying widely depending on brand, size, and packaging. For traditional pack sizes, 18mm+ blueberries are around ¥135 per box, and 22mm+ blueberries are approximately ¥155 per box, though actual prices vary by brand and batch.
Chilean avocado prices have declined slightly, currently around ¥125 per piece for 22-count cartons, similar to the same period last year, with some sources offering even lower prices. Traders report that the overall quality of arriving avocados is stable.
Demand for imported young coconuts has fallen again as temperatures drop. Prices have declined once more after a brief rebound over the past two weeks. At present, large Thai young coconuts are selling for around ¥40 per box.
Left: Vietnam durians; Right: Chilean avocados
Durian arrivals this week are limited, with the market mainly supplied by Vietnamese Monthong and Kanyao varieties. Due to tight supply, prices have increased compared with last week: Vietnamese Monthong A3 is now around ¥430 per box, up about 10–15%, and Kanyao A3 is approximately ¥300 per box. Traders stated that despite the significant drop in supply, market expectations for quality remain high, and currently, only high-quality fruit with good appearance and proper ripeness is selling quickly.
