China: Chilean imports at pre-pandemic levels, logistics and technology optimise the process

“As the data shows, the arrivals of Chilean cherries by sea to the Chinese market have recorded a significant growth of 30-50% this season. Larger sizes, particularly 3J, are increasing, while sizes 4J and 5J have steadily grown year by year.” Shenzhen Changhong Logistics Co., Ltd., a provider of services such as imported fruit booking, agency, customs clearance, and logistics, shares its insights on the cherry market. According to Director Zhu, the company has witnessed significant developments in the sector.

“Since November, more than 40 ships carrying Chilean cherries have arrived, and some vessels will continue deliveries after the Spring Festival,” Zhu reports. Major ports in southern China, such as Shenzhen, Nansha, and Hong Kong, receive a substantial volume of cherries, while Shanghai and Tianjin are key entry points in central and northern China. Notably, the shipment volume between southern ports and Shanghai remains relatively balanced, indicating the continued popularity of cherries in the Chinese market.

Zhu highlights the role of logistics and customs declaration data in tracking trends and changes in imported products. “We also handle other imported fruits, such as durian, mangosteen, grapes, citrus, and kiwis,” he explains. Among these, the import volumes of grapes and New Zealand kiwis have steadily increased in recent years.

However, premium fruits like cherries and kiwis are subject to stricter import regulations, leading to longer customs clearance times. “Since last December, customs authorities have tightened inspection standards for imported fruits like durian and longan, introducing new indicators. These improved inspection and quarantine standards enhance food safety, and we ensure timely communication with our customers about regulatory changes,” he adds.

According to Zhu, customs declaration volumes have largely returned to pre-pandemic levels. However, logistical challenges persist due to factors such as port strikes, geopolitical tensions, and regional disruptions like the Suez Canal and Red Sea crises. Additionally, the reopening of ports worldwide after the pandemic has intensified competition in the sector, leading to lower rates and new operational challenges.

In response, many companies have embraced digital transformation and incorporated smart equipment to optimize logistics and customs clearance processes. These developments aim to streamline operations and improve efficiency in the long term.

At the beginning of January 17, Changhong Logistics supervised the arrival of a chartered Chilean ship carrying over 200 containers of cherries, including varieties such as Santina, Lapins, Brooks, and Rainier. Director Zhu emphasizes the diversity of suppliers involved, from online platforms and high-end supermarkets to top-tier distributors and wholesale partners like Hengjin Supply Chain.

Changhong Logistics specializes in domestic and international transportation and customs clearance services for imported fruits. Its overseas service areas include Chile, Peru, South Africa, and Malaysia, while its domestic terminals include Nansha, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Qingdao. With a dedicated team at the ports, the company ensures smooth customs clearance and delivery to customers' cold storage warehouses or wholesale markets.

Source: FreshPlaza
Images: SL Fruit Service; FreshPlaza

Cherry Times - All rights reserved