Sentennial Cherries From New Zealand Hit Chinese Market

On the evening of Feb. 17, an appreciation dinner and launch tasting event for Sentennial cherries was held at New Zealand Central in Shanghai. The event was supported by the New Zealand Consulate-General in Shanghai, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, and 45 South Cherries.

Ardi Barnard, Consul-General of New Zealand in Shanghai, and Steve Jones, trade commissioner at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, attended the event. In his speech, Barnard highlighted the strong and promising trade relationship between New Zealand and China, noting the continued growth of bilateral trade. He also emphasized that the New Zealand government places a high priority on food safety, which has contributed to the popularity of cherries from Central Otago among Chinese consumers. Barnard expressed his hope that the event would help raise awareness and appreciation of New Zealand cherries among more consumers.

At the event, 45 South Cherries introduced its exclusive late-season variety, Sentennial. This is the latest-harvested cherry variety in New Zealand, whose availability extends from late February to early March. Sentennial cherries are known for their firm texture, high sweetness, rich flavor and impressive size, with diameters ranging from 32 to 34 millimeters. These cherries received unanimous praise from event attendees. Owing to their late-season harvest, Sentennial cherries can continue to supply the Chinese market after Chinese New Year, catering to both gifting and personal consumption needs. The current shipments are being sent to China by air, with additional sea-freighted Sentennial cherries expected to arrive later.

Richard Cameron, sales and marketing manager at 45 South Cherries, stated that Sentennial is a key investment for the company and has shown excellent sales performance. He also mentioned that the company plans to continue introducing patented varieties to extend New Zealand’s cherry season from early December to early March.

As one of New Zealand’s largest cherry companies, 45 South Cherries has been deeply engaged in the Chinese market for many years. Tim Jones, the company’s CEO, emphasized that China is a highly important market for the company and one that offers both challenges and opportunities. Over the past decade, the company has built strong and trusting relationships with its Chinese partners, which have enabled 45 South Cherries to sustain robust growth in China. The dinner event thus served as an opportunity to express gratitude to all of the company’s partners in China for their hard work and dedication.

Images: 45 South Cherries

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