Summary
The 2026 China International Fruit Expo has opened, with Zespri presenting a range of kiwifruit varieties. According to Jiang Shijie, the company's president for Greater China and South Asia, Zespri's kiwifruit sales in China have grown six to seven times over the past 15 years, with revenue up nearly 20-fold. The Chinese market now represents about a quarter of Zespri's global business.
SunGold kiwifruit accounts for close to 80 percent of its China sales, while the newly launched RubyRed variety sold nearly 1.8 million trays in six weeks, up more than 60 percent year-on-year.
Commentary
With China contributing a quarter of Zespri's global revenue and SunGold making up almost 80 percent of that, the rapid uptake of RubyRed — 1.8 million trays in six weeks, a 60 percent year-on-year increase — underscores growing appetite for premium new varieties. Still, urban penetration sits at only 30 percent. Expansion into lower-tier cities and gift-giving occasions will likely boost demand for cold-chain and packaging services.
At the same time, competition from domestic red-fleshed kiwifruit and lower-priced Chilean imports is intensifying, so New Zealand growers should stay closely aligned with Zespri's quality standards to defend their market position.
Keywords: China International Fruit Expo, Zespri, kiwifruit, Jiang Shijie, China market, sales growth, SunGold kiwifruit, RubyRed kiwifruit
Source: Tonghuashun Finance Network
Disclaimer: This article is compiled from publicly available sources for general information only. The analysis and commentary are editorial opinions. MiDeer Observer does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Readers should seek independent professional advice before relying on this content, or contact us for more information.
