Global fruit exports drive an increase in maritime transport of refrigerated containers

Drewry detailed that after a tumultuous year in 2023, the refrigerated sector entered 2024 on a stronger footing, as healthy harvests in the southern hemisphere have helped drive growth. This trend is expected to continue throughout 2024 as a whole, with a return to the growth forecast for the sector after two years of declines. Good growing seasons have supported improved deciduous exports so far this year, and the South African citrus season is likely to deliver further growth with new orchards coming into production and expected to Good growing conditions benefit exports of oranges, lemons and grapefruits. Drewry said that similarly in New Zealand, although the start for kiwifruit this year was slow, it is expected to turn into a good crop later, with export volumes substantially higher than last year's disappointing results. Major seaborne trade in chilled products, such as meat and bananas, also started the year with positive momentum, recording single-digit year-on-year ...