Global apple and pear production both increase, China's apple imports are expected to decline slightly

The USDA's World Market and Trade Report for the 2023/24 season forecasts a significant increase in global apple and pear production. Apple production is expected to rise by over 700,000 tons to 83.7 million tons, driven by higher outputs in the U.S. and China, despite reductions in the EU and Turkey. Global apple exports are projected to increase by 10% to 6 million tons, with notable contributions from the U.S. and Iran. China's apple production is set to grow by 500,000 tons to 45 million tons, while the EU's will drop by 475,000 tons to 12.2 million tons. South Africa's apple production is projected to increase by 75,000 tons to 1.2 million tons, maintaining its status as the largest Southern Hemisphere exporter. Global pear production is expected to rise by over 275,000 tons to 25.2 million tons, with China's output increasing by 600,000 tons to 19.6 million tons. Pear exports are anticipated to grow by over 100,000 tons to 1.8 million tons, driven by China and South Africa. Additionally, South Africa's production is expected to increase by 30,000 tons to 530,000 tons due to favorable winter weather, with exports projected to rise by 40,000 tons to 280,000 tons, driven by strong EU demand.