US Cherry Exports to Japan Decrease due to High Prices and Increased Domestic Demand

US cherry exports to Japan have decreased as Independence Day in the US approaches. Cherry suppliers in the Pacific Northwest region of the US have quoted above average prices in June due to limited supply and increased demand in the US. The increased demand in the US was due to the upcoming Independence Day (July 4th). Although US cherry exports have slowed down in general, exports to Japan have decreased in particular as only a handful of buyers with definite demand are purchasing cherries. The Japanese demand for US cherries has not only been affected by the weaker Japanese Yen, but also increased domestic production in Japan, which is more affordable and available than imported cherries.