Industry excitement generating for Washington apple exports
Industry excitement generating for Washington apple exports
Washington’s apple industry, which continues to methodically grow its annual fruit volume, is gratified by potential to expand its offshore markets now that China has opened its trade to apples.
“Washington apple shipments to China in 2014-15 accounted for 1,278,361 bushels with only a partial season of access,” said Todd Fryhover, president of the Washington Apple Commission. “The 2015-16 Washington apple season is seeing continued importation interest, and as of Oct. 15, Washington had shipped 248,360 bushels. Washington shippers continue to be excited about full varietal access.”
Washington’s apple producers are excited about gaining full varietal access to the Chinese marketplace. (Photo courtesy of the Washington Apple Commission)
Industry feedback has been positive, Fryhover said. “Today, we have a level playing field creating opportunity. Now Washington needs to compete.”
Fryhover said he expects exportation of Red Delicious to China could become a year-round. “Other varieties may be faced with windows of opportunity depending upon competing products from the Southern Hemisphere,” he observed.
Because the 2015-16 season is the first for full varietal access, the most popular Washington apple variety in the Chinese market is yet to be determined.
“Red Delicious has always played a significant role with Chinese consumers,” Fryhover commented. “But Gala is very popular and gaining momentum. There is definitely opportunity for other varieties from Washington state, but it’s more about education, timing and proper marketing channels than anything else.”
