Lower estimate for New Zealand apple exports

According to the new estimate established by NZAPI (New Zealand Apples and Pears Inc.) for 2021, the lack of labor in orchards and during post-harvest operations will lead to a decrease in exported volumes which are estimated at -14 % compared to 2020.

 

 

 

In January 2021, the New Zealand sector forecast a national harvest of around 558,672 tonnes, 5% below the 2020 harvest. The share of exports was expected to reach 374,751 tonnes (20.8 million boxes), or 7 % less than in 2020.

 

 

 

But these forecasts will not be met, according to Allan Pollard, CEO of NZAPI. Now forecasting exports to reach approximately 347,718 metric tons (19.3 million cartons). This represents -14% compared to 2020 and a reduction of NZD 95-100 million (USD 68-71 million) in export earnings.

 

 

 

“The availability of labor in the orchards and in post-harvest operations is well below what is needed, despite all that we have been able to do to attract New Zealanders to the area. Fruit size is on average lower than our forecasts".

 

 

 

Among the exported varieties, the Braeburn variety is the most affected with an estimate of -44% in volume compared to 2020. The Royal Gala variety, should register -15% in volume compared to 2020. Also -15% for volumes Cripps Pink and -19% for Fuji volumes. On the contrary, DazzleTM, EnvyTM, Honeycrisp and RockitTM varieties continue to show strong growth as new plantings come into production.

 

 

 

Although the size of the apples is smaller than expected, the quality remains very good and the fruit is well colored, according to NZAPI. With demand remaining strong in key markets, the industry is concerned about the disruption of international shipping schedules and port congestion.