The new season of Spanish cherries will start with a slight delay. According to the Fepex Cherry Committee, harvesting will begin in Extremadura between May 10 and 15, around ten days later than the average of previous years.
Not only in Extremadura: delays of between seven and ten days are also reported in Aragon, Catalonia, and Alicante. Despite the delay, prospects for 2025 remain optimistic: expected volumes are within the normal range, and fruits of good size are anticipated.
A major development this year is the official opening of the Chinese market to Spanish cherries, thanks to the signing of a new phytosanitary protocol between the two countries. Companies interested in exporting to China must register in a dedicated registry established by the Ministry of Agriculture and pass a compliance audit scheduled by the end of May.
Access to the Chinese market represents a strategic opportunity for the sector, which is experiencing steady growth: in 2024, Spain exported 39,968 tonnes of cherries, around 33,440 of which were destined for the European Union. Exports to non-EU countries reached 6,528 tonnes, with the United Kingdom as the main destination (5,725 tonnes), followed by Hong Kong (103 tonnes) and South Africa (100 tonnes). Total exports generated a value of €139 million.
With expansion into Asian markets and a balanced season ahead, Spain confirms its role as Europe's leading cherry producer. For Italy, the second-largest European producer, strengthening trade relations between Europe and Asia could also open new growth opportunities.
Source: fruitnet.com
09 Sep 2025
Australian cherry production is expected to drop to 18,000 metric tons in 2025/26, marking the worst season in five years. While most growing regions face climate risks, Tasmania stands out with favorable conditions and strong potential for quality fruit and export.
17 Jun 2024
In situ measurements were conducted in a sweet cherry orchard at the IONIA Sweet Cherry Farm, Ficksburg, South Africa. The study estimated evapotranspiration by combining a simple surface energy balance model with remote sensing data.
16 Jan 2026
B.J. Thurlby, who passed away at age 60, led the Washington State Fruit Commission for over 25 years. As a true ambassador for Northwest cherries, he championed research, exports and grower education, leaving a deep mark on the U.S. and international fruit industry.
16 Jan 2026
Frutas de Chile has revised its 2025/26 cherry export forecast down by 15% due to adverse weather, with shipments expected to reach 110 million boxes. To support sales, the Cherry Ice and Snow Festival launches in China, blending cherries, lifestyle and Lunar New Year culture.
