2008 cherries and plums market size in China

A growing middle class and increasing incomes in China have led to consumer demand for greater quality and more variety of fruit.

 

 

In more developed cities, imported fruit also benefits from improved infrastructure, cold-chain storage facilities, and transportation in China.

 

 

According to the California Cherry Advisory Board and the Northwest Cherry Growers, about 2,137 tons of U.S. cherries, worth US$11 million, were consumed in China in 2008. The value of U.S. cherry exports to China, including transshipments from Hong Kong, has experienced a 20-30 percent growth in the past three years.

 

 

Based on interviews with industry, China’s total cherry imports show a steady increase over the past three years, with a record high in 2008. Traders also indicate that continued growth can be expected in the next few years.

 

 

Plums currently enjoy a small niche market in China. According to Global Trade Atlas data, U.S. plum exports to China remained steady at US$2.9 million in 2008, while Chilean plum exports have grown from zero in 2006 to US$9.2 million in 2007 and US$8.4 million in 2008.

 

 

Given the fact that some Chinese consumers are willing to pay premium prices for high quality imported fruit, China is still considered a promising market for the California plum industry.