1. Weekly News

British Columbia

British Columbia's Apple Season Ends Early as Supply Tightens and Prices Rise

The supply of apples from British Columbia is decreasing, with production wrapping up earlier than expected. Growers anticipate finishing in three to four weeks, with only limited volumes of Ambrosia, Fuji, and Red Delicious apples remaining. The season began with challenges following the closure of BC Tree Fruits Cooperative, forcing growers to find alternative distribution channels. However, demand for local apples increased in recent months, supporting steady movement in the market. Pricing remains similar to last year but is expected to rise in the coming weeks as supply tightens.

India

Kashmir's Apple Growers Concerned Over Potential Tariff Reduction

Indian legislators have raised concerns over the potential removal of import duties on American apples, warning that increased competition from higher-quality global imports could threaten local growers, particularly in Kashmir. They also raised alarms about the impact of spurious pesticides on orchards, calling for stricter penalties and enhanced quality control. Given that the horticulture industry contributes around 8% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs many workers, lawmakers emphasized the need for greater government support, including the establishment of a dedicated horticulture ministry. Additionally, they underscored the importance of quarantine measures to prevent the introduction of new diseases through imported plant materials and urged stronger regulations on fertilizers and land conversion to safeguard apple production.

New Zealand

New Zealand Expands Apple Exports to Vietnam Due to Growing Demand

New Zealand apple exporters are expanding their presence in Vietnam, leveraging the country's rapid economic growth and rising consumer demand. Vietnam has seen a 40% increase in two-way trade with New Zealand, reaching USD 2.68 billion. In 2023, New Zealand exported USD 172 million worth of fruit to Vietnam, with apples leading the trade. Major exporters from Hawke’s Bay and Nelson are utilizing free trade agreements to compete with suppliers from Chile and South Africa. With a market of 100 million people, New Zealand producers prioritize premium quality and strategic marketing to strengthen their competitive position.

South Africa

South African Flash Gala Apples Enter Market with Higher Prices

In W13, South African Flash Gala apples arrived in China at prices about 20% higher than in previous seasons, driven by an earlier launch and rising production and logistics costs. In contrast, South African Gala apples have been available for two weeks, but their prices remain lower than last year's due to ample supply and competition from New Zealand apples. The continued influx of New Zealand apples has further pressured prices, causing a decline of approximately USD 2.75 per box compared to last week. Traders report slow sales across all sizes, though large apples typically perform better in the market.

Ukraine

Ukraine Enters the Indian Apple Market Despite Rising Export Prices

The arrival of the first batch of Ukrainian apples in India marks a significant milestone for Ukraine's apple industry as it expands into new international markets. This achievement is part of broader efforts by Ukrainian authorities to boost agricultural exports. The 2024/25 season has seen a sharp rise in export prices, with a more significant increase in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where importers paid 40 to 60% more. Prices have also risen by 30 to 40% in Saudi Arabia, Ukraine’s main market this season. With growing global demand, experts anticipate further expansion of Ukrainian apple exports.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Apple Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Apple Pricing Important Exporters (W13 2024 to W13 2025) 

Italy

​In W13, apple prices in Italy declined slightly by 1.08% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 1.84 per kilogram (kg). This marginal decrease is due to a temporary stabilization in the local market, where supply has momentarily aligned with demand, leading to minor price adjustments. However, month-on-month (MoM) and year-on-year (YoY) prices increased by 3.37% and 1.66%, respectively. These upward trends are due to the lingering effects of adverse weather conditions earlier in the year, including spring frosts and hailstorms in key production regions such as Trentino-Alto Adige, which reduced overall apple yields. Additionally, increased input costs and strong export demand have contributed to the sustained price increases over the longer term

United States

Apple prices in the United States (US) declined by 1.60% WoW to USD 1.23/kg, marking a 2.38% MoM drop and a 6.82% YoY decrease. This downward trend is due to elevated apple inventories. As of March 1, 2025, total apple storage was reported at 118 million bushels, reflecting a 34% increase compared to Mar-24 and standing 25% above the five-year average for that date. Fresh apple holdings totaled 84 million bushels, up 35% from the previous year, while processing holdings reached 35 million bushels, a 31% increase. The substantial surplus has exerted downward pressure on prices. Additionally, concerns about potential frost damage in key producing regions like Michigan have emerged due to unseasonably warm weather, but since most crops remain dormant, this has not yet influenced immediate pricing trends.​

South Africa

South Africa's apple prices rose by 7.55% WoW to USD 1.14/kg, with a 3.64% MoM increase. This price increase is driven by rising production and logistics costs, which have pushed up prices despite stable supply levels. Additionally, the higher pricing of Flash Gala apples, which entered the market earlier than usual, has influenced overall market trends. However, YoY prices dropped by 21.38% due to strong competition from New Zealand apples, which continue to pressure the South African market. The consistent availability of New Zealand supplies has kept price recovery limited, even as South African traders navigate fluctuating demand and logistical constraints.

France

In W13, apple prices in France surged by 5.34% WoW to USD 1.38/kg, with a 9.52% MoM increase due to broader European market dynamics and shifting consumption patterns, reflecting a slower price recovery despite stable production levels in France. However, apple prices dropped by 7.38% YoY due to the relatively stable production of 1.4 million tons in the 2024/25 season, despite a broader decline in Europe.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Optimize Pricing and Promotion Strategies for Flash Gala Apples

South African apple exporters and traders should adjust pricing strategies to balance higher costs with market demand. Offering volume-based discounts to bulk buyers can help stimulate sales, while targeted promotions highlighting the early availability and premium quality of Flash Gala apples can attract more buyers. Additionally, diversifying distribution channels, such as expanding sales to niche markets or retailers focusing on premium fruit, can help maintain profitability despite strong competition from New Zealand apples.

Strengthen Market Penetration in Vietnam through Targeted Marketing

New Zealand apple exporters should ramp up targeted marketing campaigns in Vietnam to highlight their premium quality and unique selling points. This can include in-store promotions, partnerships with local retailers, and consumer education on the health benefits of New Zealand apples. Exporters should also tailor packaging to appeal to Vietnamese consumers and leverage digital platforms for wider reach. Building strong relationships with local distributors will help solidify a long-term market presence and reduce competition pressure from Chile and South Africa.

Enhance Local Competitiveness Through Quality Improvements

Indian apple growers in Kashmir should focus on enhancing the quality of their produce to better compete with global imports. Growers should invest in modern farming techniques, including integrated pest management, organic farming, and advanced irrigation systems to improve crop resilience and quality. Additionally, collaborating with agricultural experts and adopting certifications for pesticide-free apples will help boost marketability. Building direct relationships with consumers and retailers to promote the superior taste and freshness of locally grown apples can further help establish a strong competitive edge in the market.

Sources: Tridge, Freshplaza, Greater Kashmir, RNZ, Egyptian Gazette, Agropolit