Rabobank's Gonzalo Salinas is closely monitoring global trends in the cherry trade as the Southern Hemisphere prepares for the 2023/24 season. The industry faces mixed fortunes as 2023 concludes, with challenges in Northern Hemisphere regions and optimism in the South.
Chile, a key Southern Hemisphere player, sees rising cherry production despite initial double-digit growth predictions not materializing. The season began strongly, with exceptional prices for early shipments to China. Chile focuses on early varieties like Santina, Lapin, and Regina, with efforts to diversify markets beyond China to Vietnam, Thailand, and India.
Australia and New Zealand anticipate strong seasons with improved weather conditions. Argentina complements Chile's supply, exploring new varieties. In the Northern Hemisphere, the U.S. recovers from a short crop, while Europe sees high prices due to lower production.
A common trend is the push to expand production windows, especially in the early season, to capitalize on premium prices. Salinas sees potential challenges if Northern and Southern Hemisphere suppliers directly compete. Peru's emergence as a cherry producer is on the horizon, potentially bridging the gap between hemispheres. Despite a few years before becoming a reality, there's growing interest in developing Peruvian supply.
In summary, the cherry industry navigates challenges and opportunities. Chile leads in the Southern Hemisphere, diversifying markets, while the Northern Hemisphere adapts to varying outcomes. Expanding production windows is a shared strategy, and Peru's potential role adds an intriguing dimension to the evolving cherry trade.
Red full article here: Fresh Focus Cherry
Photo: Karsten Bergmann from Pixabay
03 May 2024
In 2023, the CTIFL launched a trial to evaluate protection strategies. Six strategies were compared, two of which can be used in organic farming. These strategies are based on products available with perennial marketing authorization or 120-day marketing authorization in 2023.
15 Aug 2025
A Serbian research on 27 native cherry genotypes identifies resistant, adaptable, and low-vigor rootstocks, ideal for sustainable and resilient fruit growing. A key step to meet climate challenges in modern agriculture across Europe and beyond.
10 Apr 2026
The first Spanish greenhouse cherries reach the European market with very limited volumes and prices up to €80/kg. Strong demand from the Netherlands, Scandinavia and the UK, while the open-field season may start later than usual, impacting exports.
10 Apr 2026
A study on 22 sweet cherry cultivars in Zaragoza examines how warmer winters affect dormancy and flowering. Declining winter chill alters phenology and threatens yield, varietal adaptation and long-term sustainability in Mediterranean growing regions.
