The fruit market has experienced sluggish activity this week, attributed partly to the subpar taste of some seasonal fruits and prolonged rainy weather, which has dampened fruit consumption—a significant contributing factor.
American oranges dominate the imported citrus segment, boasting stable prices and arrival quality. The #72 medium fruit size is particularly favored. Merchants note a slower sales pace compared to the same period last year, with expectations for acceleration by April, when American oranges typically offer better taste. Egyptian oranges witnessed a small volume this week, while Egyptian grapefruit prices remain robust. South African lemons entered the market early in their production season, with prices slightly lower than last year's corresponding period.
South African lemons
Chilean plums face decreased prices and sales compared to last year, primarily due to poor taste and low sweetness in the arrivals, despite price reductions. Some merchants attribute this decline to decreased nutrient absorption in fruits from high-yield Chilean plum trees this season. A substantial shipment of Chilean plums is anticipated, increasing sales pressure next week.
Chilean plums
The price of imported avocados has marginally rebounded in recent days, following a notable increase in Peruvian avocado arrivals over the past fortnight. However, some batches exhibit lower quality than anticipated, compounded by adverse rainy conditions impacting sales in catering and tea establishments. Prices have decreased by almost half from ¥130/piece two weeks ago, currently ranging around ¥80-90/piece. Market demand for high-quality avocados persists, with expectations of further price recovery next week. Notably, price fluctuations this year commenced one month earlier than the previous year.
Left: Peruvian avocados; Right: Chinese blueberries
Chinese blueberry arrivals have increased compared to the previous week, although overall volume remains lower than late February and early March levels, with stable prices. Alpine blueberries command a slight premium due to superior taste. Besides Yunnan, blueberries from other regions are also available. Medium-sized fruits of 15mm+ are preferred by buyers due to moderate pricing, catering to a broader market segment. Peruvian blueberries have seen a price uptick compared to last week, attributable to the overall low arrival of Yunnan blueberries.
Philippine pineapples and Hainan golden pineapples
The Hainan pineapple season has commenced, leading to a 20% drop in prices for imported pineapples from the Philippines. Merchants note that Hainan golden pineapples, sweeter than Golden Diamond pineapples with less fiber, enjoy smoother sales despite higher prices. Current prices for five golden pineapples range around ¥140-150/piece, whereas Golden Diamond pineapples are priced at approximately ¥110/piece, expected to decrease with increased volume. Heavy rainfall in the production area has impacted the taste of Hainan pineapples this season.