In response to the challenges facing Green kiwifruit growers, particularly concerning profitability amid the dominance of SunGold in export portfolios, a recent forum initiated by NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI) highlighted the need for enhanced orchard management.
The Green kiwifruit growers' survey conducted by NZKGI revealed concerns among orchardists, leading to discussions on strategies to improve Green returns. With SunGold's increasing export volumes and earnings, Green growers are urged to focus on management skills to maximize orchard productivity.
The total Green crop is approximately 50 million trays, whereas SunGold exceeds 100 million trays. Many Green growers are facing the possibility of breaking even or operating at a loss this season, influenced by factors such as poor crop quality due to Covid-19 labor issues in 2020-22 and climate impacts like floods, frosts, and cyclones in the previous year. The forum aims to empower growers with information and strategies to enhance profitability at the orchard level.
Source: www.farmersweekly.co.nz