United States: Strong year for plums gets boost from Japan market

Published 2021년 9월 1일

Tridge summary

California plum growers have obtained new market access to Japan, following over a decade of technical negotiations. The export process will require strict plant health certification and a 6% duty. Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and shipping delays, the domestic market for plums has remained strong. However, higher trucking costs, fuel prices, and driver shortages have affected the movement of agricultural goods. Ongoing trade disputes with China have also impacted plum exports. The California Fresh Fruit Association and stakeholders are working to maintain trade relationships and market stability.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

As harvest of late-season plums ramps up, growers and others in the business say new market access to Japan should expand export opportunities for the crop. This comes as a bonus after what they describe as a strong year for the stone fruit. Clearing the way for California plums to enter Japanese markets took about a decade of work and multiple rounds of technical negotiations to eliminate phytosanitary barriers, said Caroline Stringer, trade director for the California Fresh Fruit Association. As a result, entry to Japan will require plant health certification standards that include strict packing and fumigation protocols, she said. Because the requirements are "very similar" to those for nectarines, she said, "we felt pretty comfortable that we can meet the same standards." A 6% duty will be applied to California plums entering Japan. With the plum season winding down, Stringer said she does not expect large export shipments to Japan this year, but the new access "will alleviate ...

Source: Agalert