COT International is a company engaged in the research, creation and selection of new fruit varieties. Internationally known for the apricot varieties sold under the COT brand name, the French company has been directing its interests in cherry varietal innovation for some years now.
At first, since 2010, as exclusive publishers of cherry varieties obtained from the SMS Unlimited (California, USA) breeding programme: Nimba*, Pacific Red*, Frisco*, Rocket* and the latest novelty Epick 16*.
Subsequently, since 2012, with its own breeding programme in Nimes, southern France. From this project, the new cherry variety Sun Pop* was obtained and licensed in 2022.
Below is the report by Marie-Laure Eteve, CEO and Research Director of COT International, presented at the workshop on cherry variety innovation at Macfrut 2023.
19 Feb 2026
In Central Otago, Clyde Orchards grows, packages and exports premium cherries to China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore. Over 105 hectares managed with vertical integration, a favourable climate and RSE labour support quality, freshness and positioning in Asian markets.
03 Nov 2023
Scientific studies have shown a decrease in susceptibility of SWD adults to Spinosad, malathion and Spinetoram. In trials in which researchers expected 100% control of SWD, they found a mortality of between 55% and 75%.
16 Apr 2026
Genomics is accelerating cherry breeding in Spain’s Jerte Valley: Cicytex and local cooperatives launch a 2026-2030 project to identify new varieties faster, analysing 1,000 trees and 110 cultivars in one of Europe’s leading modern cherry-growing regions.
16 Apr 2026
Cherry pruning in Moldova directly affects yield and fruit quality: summer pruning and renewal cuts improve size, productivity, and uniformity. Trials on varieties and rootstocks highlight effective strategies for managing modern intensive cherry orchards.
