Summary
This year's cherry harvest is in full swing, pushing prices down. A 5kg box of 2J cherries now costs RMB 288, while a 2.5kg box of 3J cherries is priced at RMB 199 and 4J at RMB 259. At Beijing's Xinfadi market on 11 January, 4J Chilean cherries traded at RMB 48-50 per jin (0.5kg), down 20% from two weeks ago and nearly half from the start of the season.
The decline reflects increased sea freight arrivals, lower costs, and a typical high-to-low price cycle.
Commentary
Chilean cherries dominate China's imported cherry market with a 97% share, and the price drop highlights the cost advantage of sea freight. New Zealand cherries, which enter the market at the same time, rely mainly on air freight and are positioned as premium products at prices three to five times higher than Chilean ones. The latest price slide may pressure high-priced segments, but Chinese demand for quality fruit with a short supply chain remains strong.
NZ SMEs can emphasise the Central Otago origin and air-freshness label, steering clear of price wars and focusing on gifting and instant consumption channels.
Keywords: cherries, price drop, Chile, wholesale market, sea freight
Source: Sina News
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