On April 2, 2024, Zespri initiated its new kiwifruit season, offering green, golden, and ruby red varieties through Hema, marking a significant sales increase of fivefold since their partnership began in 2018. This year, Zespri aims to export 193,000 tons of kiwifruits to China, its largest market, constituting 27% of its global supply. The season's first shipment arrived in Shanghai on March 26 via the refrigerated chartered ship 'Kowhai,' ensuring fresh delivery across the nation within 48 hours. Through strategic partnerships, including with 17 global 'fruit giants,' Hema has successfully reduced kiwifruit prices by 10-30% from the previous year, enhancing both product variety and price competitiveness.