W4 Apple Update: Weather Hits India and Brazil Apples, Korean Opposes to Imports, Ukraine Aims for Sustainable Growth

Cold Weather Affects São Paulo Apple Market, Prices Remain Stable

In São Paulo, Brazil, , the demand for apples at the Companhia de Entrepostos e Armazéns Gerais de São Paulo (CEAGESP) was impacted by the cold and rainy weather, coupled with the decreased purchasing power of buyers towards the end of the month in W4. Despite these factors, fruit prices remained stable due to low warehouse supply. The Fuji 110c Cat 1 saw a 2% week-on-week (WoW) increase to USD 35.94 per box of 18 kilograms (kg). Wholesalers noted supply tightening of traditional apples (Gala and Fuji) as major national suppliers in the south exhaust stocks. The newly harvested Gala is anticipated to start circulating in Feb-24.

Korean Apple Industry Protests Government Move to Import, Calls for Self-Sufficiency

The Korea Apple Association and the Korea Orchard Cooperatives Association vehemently oppose the government's move to import apples for the first time, citing potential devastation to the domestic apple industry nationwide with over 70 thousand concerned apple producers. The statement calls for the withdrawal of the import decision to avert a significant blow to the industry and ensure self-reliance. Despite a 25% year-on-year (YoY) decrease in apple production due to abnormal weather impact, the associations urge the government to prioritize disaster relief measures for farmers rather than resorting to imports, emphasizing the need for stability in supply and demand.

Indian Apple Growers Face Production Slump, Anticipating Price Hikes

Indian apple growers from the main producing regions in Jammu, Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh anticipate a substantial decline in production this year due to the lack of crucial January snowfall and rainfall. These regions contribute 95% of India's apple production. A shortfall may result in increased apple prices for consumers and income losses for farmers.

Italy Leads in Apple Yield in Europe, Ukraine Has Potential to Enhance Output With Sustainable Practices

Italy boasts the highest yield of marketable apples at 90%, while Ukraine and Poland report 60% and 50%, respectively. An international apple and pear cultivation consultant emphasizes Ukraine's potential for higher yields with well-maintained orchards, particularly those aged 10-12 years, yielding 75%. Notably, the production from the young trees in Ukraine has reached 85 to 90% export-quality apples. The consultant warns that orchards with yields below 50% are financially unsustainable. He encourages Ukrainian farmers to focus on sustainable practices for profitable apple cultivation, stressing the importance of marketable yields for economic viability.