The heat waves are damaging the cherry harvest in the northeastern prefecture of Yamagata, the main producer of this fruit in Japan. Municipalities in the prefecture are struggling to secure a sufficient number of cherries for a program that involves sending gifts to people who donate money in exchange for a tax reduction.
The prefecture of Yamagata accounts for almost 80% of the national cherry production, but it is likely that this year's harvest will be much lower than previously expected. The extremely hot climate for two consecutive summers has produced low-quality cherries that are not suitable for shipping.
According to the prefecture, as of June 26, about 76,000 gift packages of cherries were affected, accounting for nearly 20% of the total.
According to the prefecture of Yamagata, some municipalities would not have been able to ship the cherries by the expected dates, or they would have had to send a different variety or size.
To watch the video click here
Source: NHK World - Japan
Image: NHK World - Japan
20 Oct 2023
The step taken by S-21 was to successfully overcome the first institutional constraint, being unanimously approved by the INIA's Regional Committee for the Release of New Varieties, a milestone for regional and national fruit growing.
21 Oct 2024
According to Aníbal Caminiti, “The climate has been challenging this season, especially due to the large number of frosts, but despite this, a good production is expected, which would allow us to have enough fruit to export around 8,000 tons. For now, these are just projections".
20 Jan 2026
Chilean Santina cherries have officially been classified as a low glycemic index (GI=39) food. This result opens new doors for nutrition-focused marketing and reinforces cherries' status as a healthy, smart fruit choice for consumers aiming for a balanced and low-GI diet.
20 Jan 2026
China now absorbs 93% of Chile’s cherry exports, making them the country’s second most exported product after copper. Thanks to direct sea routes, improved logistics, and lower prices, Chile is boosting its position as a global leader in agri-food trade with China.
