Kiwifruit production in the northern hemisphere to exceed previous volumes

Zespri, which has for more than 20 years of existence entered into partnerships with 1,300 producers located in the northern hemisphere, predicts that the harvest of Zespri kiwis in this hemisphere will exceed previous volumes.

 

Nick Kirton, Managing Director of Northern Hemisphere Supply, says the Northern Hemisphere sales program has just started and Zespri expects to sell around 26 million trays, or nearly 93,000 tonnes of kiwifruit from orchards located in France, Italy, Greece, Korea and Japan.

 

"This season's harvest will be the largest yet and we look forward to bringing more tasty, high-quality kiwifruit to consumers as we move from fruits grown in New Zealand to those grown in the northern hemisphere." Mr Kirton said.

 

Across the supply regions of the Northern Hemisphere, Zespri has formed partnerships for over 20 years with approximately 1,300 producers and suppliers who play a key role in the global sourcing strategy striving to deliver Top quality Zespri kiwifruit 12 months of the year.

 

This season, Zespri Green kiwifruit sales volumes are expected to remain stable compared to last year, while Zespri SunGold kiwifruit sales are expected to increase by 13%, due to increased yields, new production and progress made in pest and disease control.

 

According to Kirton, Zespri's relationships with growers and suppliers in Europe and Asia also allow him to bring a holistic approach to help overcome threats posed by pests and diseases. In addition to the Kiwifruit Vine Decline Syndrome (KVDS) working group based in Italy, Zespri is also undertaking additional research on other pests, reflecting the need for the industry to remain vigilant in the face of biosecurity threats.

 

source : zespri com