W50 Apple Update: Global Fresh Apple Market Insight, from Import Surges to Quality Growth to Record Harvest, and Export Crisis

India Anticipates 13.9% Surge in Apple Imports for the 2023/24 Season, Amidst Challenging Domestic Production Year

India's apple imports are projected to surge to 410 thousand metric tons (mt) in the 2023/24 season, a 13.9% rise year-over-year (YoY). Adverse weather in key production areas, including Himachal Pradesh and Jammu, led to a challenging domestic season. Severe weather conditions and natural calamities affected fruit quality and disrupted supply chains. This is driving increased demand for imports. Turkey remains India's primary apple supplier, capturing 32% of the market, followed by Iran (22%), and Italy (11%). Distribution challenges in northern regions boost reliance on imported apples, highlighting the significance of foreign markets to meet demand.

Italy's Apple Production Sees 3% YoY Growth With Regional Variations and Challenges

Italian apple production stands at 2.18 million metric tons (mt), a 3% increase from 2022. The Alto Adige region sees a 16% YoY rise, reaching 1 mmt, and Trentino remains stable at 485,951 mt. Piedmont reports a positive situation with a 2% increase YoY, despite hailstorms. Veneto faces a 29% production contraction YoY due to frost and hail damage, resulting in only 43% fresh market apple availability. Emilia-Romagna production also experienced damage.

Pink Lady Harvest in Europe Saw a 20% Surge in Quality YoY

The Pink Lady apple harvest for 2023 in Europe has concluded on a positive note. This demonstrates optimal quality despite warm early autumn and heavy rains in Italian, French, and Spanish orchards. The Pink Lady Europe association estimates a potential volume of 225 thousand mt, reflecting a substantial 20% increase from the previous season. In the initial two weeks of the campaign, a dynamic start is evident, with a remarkable 24% surge in apple sales. Key markets, including the United Kingdom (+34%), France (+28%), and Belgium (+18%), showcase significant growth in sales. Wholesale markets in France and Spain report a robust start, with increases of +21% and +54% in sales, respectively, supported by promotions and impactful installations.

Growing Fuji Apple Demand in Brazil Amid Stable Prices

In Brazil, the W50 apple market report reveals a slight increase in sales, notably for the Fuji variety, driven by heightened demand in major purchasing centers due to its commendable quality. Although Fuji apples command high prices, reaching USD 25.32/box for 18 kilograms (kg) 110c Class1 (BRL 124.14/box of 18 kg), these rates remain steady. Notably, national stocks of traditional apple varieties are depleting. The market anticipates the introduction of the Eva variety in the upcoming weeks. Alongside imported apples and stone fruits, this potentially impacts the trade of stored traditional apples.

Crimea's Apple Harvest Thrives with 9% Surge YoY

In Crimea, the apple harvest has seen a significant increase of 9% YoY, with approximately 138 thousand tons gathered from over 4 thousand hectares (ha). The Minister of Agriculture reports the completion of harvesting, highlighting the Bakhchisarai, Krasnogvardeisky, Nizhnegorsky, and Simferopol districts as leaders in apple picking. Varieties such as Gala, Golden, Delicious, Eva, Jonagold, and Pink Lady are cultivated by numerous enterprises in the peninsula. The harvested apples, totaling over 138 thousand tons, are consumed locally and also sold in other regions of Russia. The government has allocated about USD 4.45 million (RUB 400 million) to support the apple industry through subsidies.

Argentina Achieves Record Apple and Pear Harvest in 2023

Argentina celebrates its largest apple and pear harvest ever in 2023, reaching 1.17 million tons, a 20% increase from 2022. Despite this, profits disappoint due to low fruit quality, mainly designated for processing. Apple cultivation sees a 25% increase, reaching 527,500 tons, contributing to this record-breaking harvest. The success is tempered by quality challenges, emphasizing the need for strategies to enhance fruit quality and market value.

Moldova Grapples with Apple Export Crisis After Russian Market Closure

Moldova faces a critical decline in apple exports, recording only 7,800 tons in Nov-23, generating USD 4 million. This is the lowest in five years, and it is raising concerns. In Nov-23, 5,700 tons were exported to former CIS countries (Commonwealth of Independent States), mainly to Russia and Kazakhstan. While the EU received just under 1 thousand tons. The recent Russian embargo on fruit and vegetables from Moldova, which came into effect on Dec-23, has stopped the official export of apples to the Russian market. It has created a big trade challenge for Moldova and re-export options through third countries may prove costly. This situation demands strategic market diversification for Moldova's apple industry.

Global Apple Market Forecasts Robust Growth Driven by Tech and Health Trends

The global apple market anticipates significant growth by 2030, driven by technological advancements, organic varieties, and increased usage in food and beverages. Factors include rising demand for healthy snacks, advanced farming practices, and retail sector expansion. Challenges involve climate change affecting yields and price fluctuations. Shifting consumer preferences towards organic and local fruits impact demand. The rise of vegans and health-conscious individuals boosts apple consumption. Main consumers include the beverage, bakery, and confectionery industries, particularly the cider sector. Overall, the market is poised for expansion but faces challenges tied to production and consumer preferences.