In W35 in the pear landscape, the first Conference pears of the season have arrived in the Dutch market, and trade agreements with growers have set prices in the range of USD 0.65 to 0.70 per kilogram (kg). The Netherlands and Belgium have ample supply of large pears, and their prices vary from USD 0.59 to 0.75/kg. Factors like bronzing and roughening affect the quality of pears, which can vary by region. The earlier picking date suggests that the overall situation is not too unfavorable.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) anticipates a slight increase in pear production for 2023, with a harvest of 645 thousand tons. This represents a marginal increase from the 644 thousand tons harvested in 2022. The USDA analysis is considered accurate until actual numbers are available. The pear industry and consumers are now awaiting the forecast from Pear Bureau Northwest for a more comprehensive view of this year's production.
Argentina's pear exports have experienced significant growth, with over 252.2 thousand tons exported in the first seven months of 2023, representing a 17% year-over-year (YoY) increase. The primary destination for these pear exports is Brazil, where over 90.1 thousand tons were shipped, marking a 43% YoY increase. Russia also saw a 29% YoY growth in pear imports from Argentina, and the United States (US) purchased 41.8 thousand tons, reflecting a 5% YoY increase. Together, these three markets accounted for 72% of the total exportable supply of pears from the Río Negro and Neuquén valleys in Argentina. Other markets, including Peru and Mexico, have shown a positive reception for Argentine pears, while shipments to Italy decreased by 25% YoY. Argentina's pear exports have grown due to the revaluation of the Brazilian real, strong demand from Mercosur partner countries, and favorable economic conditions, contributing to increased exports to countries like Brazil and other Mercosur members.
Pears from various regions in China have entered the market this new season, with the quality of pears being ideal due to the good climate in the producing areas. Hebei pear production has declined, while Shanxi, Henan, and Shandong pears have increased. However, despite the good quality and availability, pear prices have remained relatively low, and sales volumes have not been high. Most of the pears are sold in the wholesale markets, with the Guangzhou Fruit Wholesale Market experiencing a 50% YoY decrease in sales volume. The overall fruit market in 2023 is relatively weak, but e-commerce has been relatively better, with pear sales rising in the past two years.