The commencement of Tasmanian cherry availability kicks off in early December, as the majority of producers initiate harvesting at the onset of the new year. A projected 25% uptick in cherry production is anticipated owing to the favorable climatic conditions foreseen for this season.
Tasmanian cherries have left their imprint in more than 20 countries and regions globally, with mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand emerging as primary export hubs. China takes the lead in the export market, constituting 63% of the overall export share.
A recent virtual conference jointly organized by Fruit Growers Tasmania and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission delivered pivotal updates to importers from China, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines, and other nations regarding the forthcoming season's advancements.
Estimations for the 2023/24 season project the total production of Tasmanian cherries to hit approximately 4,300 tons, with an anticipated export volume of around 2,000 tons. The supply will be accessible from December to February, with the zenith expected in January 2024. Prominent varieties include Kordia, Lapin, Regina, Simone, Sweetheart, Sweet Georgia, and Sylvia.
Exceptional climatic conditions in Tasmania throughout both spring and summer this year have contributed to an extraordinary quality of cherries, featuring larger sizes, more vibrant colors, and elevated sugar levels. Growers express confidence in a 15-20% upswing in export volume compared to the preceding season.
Read the full article: Produce report
Image: Photo by Simon Berger
20 Nov 2024
Some dwarfing rootstock selections for Gisela® cherry trees have recently been licensed in New Zealand and will be more widely available to growers from 2026. Gisela® 12 and 6 are currently being tested in Central Otago.
25 Feb 2025
Predicting sweet cherry hardiness is crucial for frost management, as early spring development makes them vulnerable to late frosts.
08 Sep 2026
A study on cherry germplasm in Hungary analyzes SSR markers BPPCT034 and CPSCT038 linked to fruit size, highlighting new opportunities for marker-assisted selection and genetic improvement of sweet and sour cherry in modern breeding programs across Hungary today in EU.
08 Sep 2026
With compressed prices and record volumes, cherry profitability in Chile increasingly depends on phenology, BBCH monitoring, leaf wetness and risk management. A data-driven approach helps growers protect fruit quality, exportable yield, margins and market competitiveness.
