In W27 in the cherry landscape, experts indicate that Moldovan cherry exports in Jun-23 exceeded 8 thousand mt, a significant increase of nearly 1.5 thousand mt compared to Jun-22, with shipments mainly destined for Russia. However, there has been a notable increase in Moldovan cherry supplies to the western regions of Ukraine. Also, Moldovan sweet cherry exports to European Union (EU) countries reached 1.3 thousand mt in Jun-23, up from less than 1 thousand mt shipped throughout the 2022 season. Moldovan sweet cherry exports are to conclude within one to two weeks. Wholesalers and exporters report high Moldovan cherry demand from both EU and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) buyers for both large cherries and smaller berries with a caliber of less than 26 millimeters (mm). This, coupled with reduced supply and the active sales period ending early has led to a significant increase in wholesale prices for sweet cherries. By the end of W27, sweet cherry prices had risen by 7-9%, with large fruits priced at USD 1.47-1.52/kg and smaller cherries at USD 0.98-1.36/kg. However, it is unlikely that 2023's Moldovan sweet cherry exports will surpass 2022's 13 thousand mt volume. Many large horticultural farms report a 20 to30% decrease in the 2023 sweet cherry harvest compared to 2022, impacting export potential.
In W27 in the German market, German and Turkish cherry batches formed the product range basis. Overall, cherry interest was not bad, with storage options up in spots compared to W26. In the Italian cherry market, high prices and compromised harvesting were observed, partly due to flooding. However, the global demand for Italian cherries is increasing, putting upward pressure on packing houses to handle larger volumes, hence needing optical sizing and sorting technologies. Experts forecast a continued global cherry market expansion over the next five years, with an annual growth rate projected between 5-10%.
Lastly, Turkey, the world's leading cherry producer with 800 thousand mt, initiated the cherry harvest in the Darboğaz village of Ulukışla district in Niğde. The Turkish cherries, known for their unique color, flavor, and size, are grown in the high-altitude villages of the Bolkar Mountains, including Darboğaz, Kılan, Çiftehan, Emirler, and Yeniyıldız. The temperature variations between day and night in these regions contribute to the cherries' characteristics. Apart from being exported to European countries such as Russia, France, England, and Germany, cherries from Niğde have also entered China, South Korea, and Thailand in 2023. Niğde aims to establish itself as a prominent cherry production center, with quality production and a reliable marketing system. The 2023 expected harvest in Niğde is 38 thousand mt, cultivated across 26.53 thousand decares in 114 villages.
