News about China

Sweet cherry genome ‘Tieton’: genetic breakthrough from China’s Shandong region

Breeding

24 Oct 2025

A new telomere-to-telomere reference genome for the sweet cherry ‘Tieton’, developed in China’s Shandong region, marks a major advance in plant genomics and opens new paths for precision breeding, genetic analysis, and varietal innovation in fruit crops.

Identification of PavUGT48, an enzyme involved in sweet cherry coloration and quality

Breeding

21 Oct 2025

Chinese researchers have identified PavUGT48, a gene in sweet cherry that enhances fruit color and quality. The enzyme acts on anthocyanins and amygdalin, paving the way for genetic selection and nutraceutical optimization in commercial cherry varieties.

China opens to South Africa: green light for stonefruit, cherries and blueberries next

Markets

21 Oct 2025

South Africa signs a new stonefruit export protocol with China and sets its sights on blueberries and cherries. The agriculture minister invites Chinese plant health officials to inspect orchards and packhouses, aiming to launch exports starting from the upcoming commercial seaso

Colchagua beats Ovalle: ultra-early cherries kick off 2025/26 season

Production

17 Oct 2025

Chile's 2025/26 cherry season starts with a surprise: Colchagua beats Ovalle with AG2, harvested on October 13. 3J and 4J-sized cherries are already on their way to China. Meanwhile, the north kicks off its harvest with Brooks and Nimba, determined not to fall behind.

Global cherry market in crisis: production drops, prices soar

Markets

09 Oct 2025

Global cherry production for 2025/26 falls by 10%, affecting Turkey, Europe and the United States. International prices are rising as Chile takes the lead in exports. The Southern Hemisphere is ready to seize the moment, but cherries risk becoming a luxury product.

Alternaria alternata outbreak in sweet cherries from China raises food safety concerns

Post-harvest​

01 Oct 2025

Alternaria alternata is rapidly spreading in sweet cherries from Haidian district, Beijing. The study highlights severe rot, toxin production, and urgent need for effective post-harvest strategies and fast monitoring to ensure food safety across the cherry supply chain.

Chilean cherries: China leads, but emerging markets demand top quality

Markets

29 Sep 2025

Chilean cherries continue to dominate in China, but markets like North America and Europe demand consistent quality. The industry's challenge is to improve production standards, focusing on size, firmness, and defect-free fruit to remain globally competitive.

Ovalle doubles cherry production and leads the early Chinese market

Production

24 Sep 2025

In northern Chile, Ovalle is set to double its cherry production thanks to a favorable winter and new orchards coming into play. Over 2,000 tons are expected, with air shipments to China starting in week 42, kicking off the season with early, premium-quality fruit.

China opens to Jerte cherries: Spanish exports set to take off

Markets

22 Sep 2025

China opens its doors to Jerte cherries after ten years of negotiations. First shipments will go by air to avoid maritime delays. A new market for Extremadura’s fruit exports, facing strict protocols but also unlocking significant opportunities in the global cherry trade.

US cherries 2025: resilience in China Amid tariffs, competition and logistics

Markets

16 Sep 2025

The 2025 US cherry season ended with shipments to China at 65% of 2024 levels. Despite tariffs, lychees and Canadian cherries, demand for premium varieties stayed strong. Quality, pricing and logistics remain the main challenges as the industry seeks diversification.