A 2018 harvest that will break records
New Zealand
Monday 27 August 2018
FJ
A good year for the sector with an increase in volumes produced and a rise in external demand.
In New Zealand the vast majority of the 2018 apple crop has been harvested and almost 90% has been exported. The sector expects a very positive balance sheet after multiple favorable factors for a record in all areas: favorable climate for fruit growth, increased demand for Premium varieties, low stocks in the Northern Hemisphere.
The total harvest is expected to have increased by 5 to 6% compared to the volumes produced the previous year. The season benefited from ideal weather conditions allowing the largest average fruit size in 20 years.
These conditions have accelerated the projects of new plantations and the regreffe of varieties. The estimated increase in area in recent years was 250 to 300 hectares / year. New plantings could reach 500 to 600 hectares / year by 2020. 'Club' varieties now account for around 45-50% of total production.
Asia is the main region where demand is growing, with exports increasing by about 7% per year and this market accounts for almost 40% of total exports. Europe is still the preferred market for Braeburn, Royal Gala and Pink Lady varieties. The weakness of stocks in the northern hemisphere has led to an increase in the volumes requested.
source : scoop.co.nz