Tasmanian Cherry Output Set To Surge by 25% in 2023/24

Tasmanian cherries have been available on the market since the first week of December, with the majority of growers set to commence harvesting at the beginning of the new year. The peak of the supply is anticipated in January. Benefiting from favorable weather conditions, Tasmanian cherry production is projected to rise by as much as 25% this season.

Currently, Tasmanian cherries are exported to more than 20 countries and regions worldwide, with major destinations including mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand. Greater China stands as the largest export market for Tasmanian cherries, accounting for 63% of total exports.

Recently, Fruit Growers Tasmania and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission jointly hosted an online conference focusing on the Asian market. Importers from China, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines and elsewhere were briefed on the latest developments for the upcoming season.

For the 2023/24 season, Tasmanian cherries are estimated to have a total output of around 4,300 metric tons, with an expected export volume of approximately 2,000 metric tons. The supply is anticipated to last from December to February, with the peak season occurring in January 2024. The primary varieties on offer include Kordia, Lapin, Regina, Simone, Sweetheart, Sweet Georgia and Sylvia.

It has been reported that the weather conditions in both spring and summer in Tasmania this year have been excellent. Consequently, the quality of cherries is remarkable, with larger sizes, deeper colors and higher sugar contents. Growers anticipate a 15–20% increase in export volume compared with last season.

According to a newsletter released by Fruit Growers Tasmania, the General Administration of Customs of China has agreed to reinstate the recognition of Northern Tasmania as a pest-free area. This development is excellent news for growers in the region, who have been unable to trade with China under that recognition since 2018.

Image: Pixabay

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