Trade tensions shift US cherry exports to Vietnam and Hong Kong

With ongoing trade tensions, US cherry exporters are turning to Vietnam and Hong Kong as shipments to mainland China decline. Even though China temporarily lifted additional tariffs between May and early August, uncertainty in bilateral relations continues to pressure the industry.

The oversupply in alternative markets has driven prices down sharply. In Vietnam, cherries are selling for as low as 189,000 dong (US$7.20) per kilogram, half of last year’s price. Promotions by major retailers like WinMart boosted sales by 140% year‑on‑year. Vietnam imported US$28 million worth of cherries in the first five months of the year, up 43%, and is negotiating to cut reciprocal tariffs from 46% to 20%.

Hong Kong has also absorbed more US cherries, pushing prices to their lowest in 20 years. Washington cherries are now sold at HK$40 per pound (US$11.24/kg) in Yau Ma Tei’s wholesale market, with 5‑kg boxes down 35% from last year. Daily sales climbed to 12,000 boxes, up from 8,000.

Meanwhile, US production is projected to reach 383,000 metric tons in 2025, 8% higher than 2024, further pressuring wholesale prices, which fell 10‑15% in June and July. While demand in alternative markets is rising, the loss of mainland China continues to weigh heavily on the US cherry trade.

source: frutasdechile.cl

photo: tastingtable.com