China’s Table Grape Export Volume Hit Record High in 2024

According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, China’s table grape exports in 2024 totaled 593,562 metric tons and $927.80 million, representing year-on-year increases of 22.80% and 14.04%, respectively, compared with 2023, with the export volume hitting a historic high. However, the export price per kilogram was $1.56, reflecting a 7.14% year-on-year decrease.

Southeast Asia is the primary destination for Chinese table grapes, with Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia ranking among the top importers. In 2024, Vietnam imported 151,525 metric tons, valued at $259.55 million, while Thailand imported 128,114 metric tons, valued at $197.78 million. Both countries have strong demand for table grapes from China. On the one hand, their large populations and expansive consumer markets drive significant consumption. On the other hand, their domestic grape industries are relatively underdeveloped and unable to meet local demand, prompting them to rely on imports to fill the market gap.

Hong Kong ranked 10th among the export destinations, and its export data were somewhat unique. Despite a relatively low import volume of just 12,868 metric tons, the import value reached $29.96 million, corresponding to an export price of $2.33 per kilogram — significantly higher than those for other major export destinations. This is attributable to the high quality of table grapes sent to Hong Kong, which aligns with local consumer demand for premium fruits, enabling them to be sold at higher prices.

In terms of export performance, Yunnan province stood out, with an export volume of 152,600 metric tons and an export value of $253.73 million, ranking highly in terms of both quantity and value. Yunnan benefits from unique natural conditions, including abundant sunlight, a suitable temperature and humidity, and soil that promotes grape root growth and nutrient absorption, creating an ideal environment for grape cultivation. Additionally, Yunnan’s grape industry is highly developed, with a well-established industrial chain spanning planting, harvesting, processing and export, ensuring a stable supply of high-quality table grapes.

Aside from Yunnan, other provinces such as Fujian and Shandong also had significant export volumes. Fujian’s export volume reached 61,427 metric tons, with a value of $95.36 million, while Shandong exported 57,193 metric tons worth $89.32 million. These provinces have distinct advantages in grape industry development, including substantial investment in breeding grape varieties that better meet the requirements of international markets. Additionally, their success in establishing extensive sales networks and actively exploring international markets has been a key factor in their export performance.

The growth in China’s table grape exports can be ascribed to several factors. First, continuous increases in production have laid a solid foundation for exports. Second, deepening trade relations have created a broad platform for table grape exports. China has actively established trade cooperation with multiple countries, particularly through the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, which has created a more favorable policy environment for table grape trade between China and ASEAN member countries by lowering tariffs and trade barriers. Finally, the advantage of off-season supply has also contributed to the growth of China’s table grape exports. China’s vast territory spans multiple climate zones, with different regions having distinct grape harvest seasons. Moreover, advanced agricultural techniques and the development of cold-chain logistics have facilitated the off-season production and supply of grapes. When grape production in the Southern Hemisphere enters the off-season, Chinese grapes can effectively fill the market gap.

Image: Pixabay

This article was translated from Chinese. Read the original article.