1. Weekly News

Global

Kissabel Apples Expand to Southern Hemisphere Amid Rising Global Demand

Known for its distinctive pink to deep red flesh, the Kissabel apple range is expanding into the Southern Hemisphere, following successful market entries in Europe and North America. Developed under the International Fruit Obtention for Research and Development (IFORED) program, Kissabel apples are now being trialed and commercialized in Australia, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa. Australia leads the initiative with Montague Farms advancing marketing and variety development, while producers in Latin America and South Africa focus on adapting the apples to local conditions and preparing for broader commercialization.

Chile

Peru Reopens Market to Chilean Apples Following Phytosanitary Agreement

Exports of fresh Chilean apples to Peru have officially resumed in Apr-25, following nearly three months of suspension due to pest detections. The reopening was made possible by intensive technical negotiations and the signing of an updated bilateral work plan between Chile's Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) and Peru's National Agrarian Health Service (SENASA). The agreement restores a key export channel for Chilean apple producers, particularly benefiting small- and medium-sized businesses, and marks a renewed phase of agricultural cooperation between the two countries.

India

Imported Apple Prices Surge in India as Red Delicious Hits Record Highs

Imported apple prices in India have risen sharply this season, particularly for Red Delicious varieties, driven by higher costs in source countries such as Türkiye and the United States (US). Turkish Red Delicious apples, especially those in Controlled Atmosphere (CA) stock, are now priced nearly on par with US apples, pushing consumer prices to near-record highs. This has led to increased demand for locally stored Indian apples in northern regions and a market shift toward smaller-sized fruit due to affordability. Gala apple prices are also elevated amid limited imports from the Southern Hemisphere, with Brazilian Gala apples emerging as the most cost-effective and New Zealand's leading in quality. Supported by aggressive marketing, Pink Lady apples continue to gain popularity, especially in southern India. While Gala prices are expected to remain stable in the short term, a possible oversupply is anticipated as Chilean apples enter the market, while Red Delicious prices may spike again in late May-25 and Jun-25.

Uruguay

Cripps Pink Harvest Boosts Uruguay’s Apple Supply in W17

According to the Farmers Observatory report for the Metropolitan Agri-Food Unit (UAM) during W17, Uruguay's apple supply increased notably with the arrival of the first Cripps Pink harvest. With nearly all domestic apple varieties now available, market supply has grown, resulting in a slight price decline, particularly for varieties like Red Delicious and Gala, which have maintained steady availability in recent weeks.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Apple Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Apple Pricing Important Exporters (W17 2024 to W17 2025) 

Italy

In W17, Italy's apple prices rose to USD 1.93 per kilogram (kg), reflecting a 1.58% week-on-week (WoW) increase. With a rise of 7.82% year-on-year (YoY) from USD 1.79/kg, current prices remain well above the five-year average. This upward pricing trend is largely driven by reduced apple production across Europe, including Italy, where adverse weather, particularly spring frosts and hailstorms in key regions like Trentino-Alto Adige, has led to significantly lower yields. The constrained supply, coupled with steady domestic demand for high-quality varieties, is supporting elevated price levels.

United States

US apple prices rose 2.44% WoW to USD 1.26/kg in W17, though they remain 16.56% lower YoY. The price decline reflects ongoing market adjustments after a record-high crop in the previous season created a surplus. While the 2024/25 forecast anticipates a 10.1% drop in production, ample carryover stocks and rising competition from organic apples, especially in Michigan. If inventories tighten further and demand remains steady, upward price pressure could strengthen in the coming months.

Chile

In W17, Chile’s apple prices declined to USD 1.15/kg, down 2.54% WoW and 10.16% month-on-month (MoM). The price drop is linked to seasonal harvest peaks in Apr-25, which boosted domestic supply, alongside strong regional competition from other Southern Hemisphere exporters. Furthermore, higher volumes have further contributed to downward price pressure. If export demand does not keep pace with supply, prices may remain soft in the short term, though a later seasonal taper in supply or strong overseas interest could stabilize or lift prices.

South Africa

In W17, South Africa’s apple prices fell to USD 0.89/kg, a 9.18% weekly decline and a 38.19% YoY drop. The decrease reflects oversupply pressures from a forecasted 5% increase in export volumes, driven by new orchards and high-yield varieties entering production. While strong demand for premium apples like Royal Gala and Cripps Pink has supported pricing in select markets, intensified global competition, particularly from Chile and Poland, has limited price gains. If export markets absorb the surplus, prices may stabilize, but persistent oversupply and competitive pressures could maintain downward momentum in the near term.

France

France's apple prices fell to USD 1.28/kg in W17, down 5.88% WoW and 7.91% YoY, reflecting subdued domestic demand and growing competition from Southern Hemisphere imports. Despite earlier seasonal gains and prices remaining above the five-year average, oversupply from imports and a consumer shift toward lower-priced pre-packed apples are driving the decline. If import volumes remain high and demand stays soft, further price pressure may persist in the near term.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Leverage High-Value Varieties to Expand Market Reach

Southern Hemisphere growers and exporters should prioritize investment in marketing and scaling up production of premium, visually distinct varieties like Kissabel and Cripps Pink. These apples offer strong consumer appeal and higher price potential in competitive export markets such as India and Europe. Public-private partnerships and breeder collaborations can help ensure rapid varietal adaptation to local climates and accelerate commercialization.

Enhance Bilateral Trade Resilience Through Phytosanitary Readiness

Chile and other exporters should strengthen monitoring systems and pre-export pest management to prevent future suspensions like the recent Peru import halt. Investing in real-time pest detection tools, improved traceability, and joint technical training with importing countries can ensure smoother trade continuity and protect access to key regional markets.

Sources: Tridge, Agraria, Mundo Agro, Todo El Campo, Fresh Plaza