Global cherry output set to grow in 2024/25

According to the Stone Fruit: World Markets and Trade report recently released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service, global fresh cherry production in the 2024/25 season is expected to increase slightly to 5.0 million metric tons, despite a decline in output from Turkey. Normal growing conditions in China, Chile, the European Union and the United States are driving this growth. Meanwhile, global exports are projected to reach 759,000 metric tons, approaching last season’s record. China’s production and imports are forecast to rise to 850,000 metric tons and 415,000 metric tons, respectively. Although Turkey, the world’s largest cherry producer, is experiencing favorable growing conditions this year, it is unlikely to replicate last year’s exceptional weather and record-high yields. Consequently, Turkey’s production is forecast to decline by 48,000 metric tons to a total of 900,000 metric tons. However, strong demand from the European Union means ...