In W36 in the pear landscape, during the 48th edition of the Prognosfruit convention held from August 2 to 4, 2023, the World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) presented their forecast for the 2023 European Union (EU) apple and pear crop. According to WAPA, the 2023 EU fresh pear production is expected to reach 1.7 million metric tons (mmt), a 12.8% year-over-year (YoY) decrease, primarily due to weather-related issues experienced in Italy, France, and Greece. This WAPA forecast was based on the situation as of mid-Jul-23.
In China, the thorn pear harvest has commenced in Guizhou province, specifically in the Shuicheng district of Liupanshui. This marks the beginning of a two-month-long harvest season in the region. The region has implemented bio-control and organic farming technologies to ensure high-quality fruit production. They have also established a mechanism connecting processing enterprises and cooperatives to promote the development of the thorn pear industry, benefiting approximately 162 thousand thorn pear farmers.
Lastly, South African blush pear exports have seen significant growth in the past five years, with the Far Eastern markets leading the way, experiencing an average increase in volumes of more than 30%. The Middle Eastern market also saw a 12% rise, and China, in particular, imported around 30% of the blush pear volumes sent to the Far East last season. Despite initial uncertainty, exporters and importers have demonstrated the Far East's readiness for South African blush pears, resulting in favorable returns for pear growers. Other strong performers in the Far East countries include Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The early export of the first Celina blush pear on Jan-23 represented about 60% of the total blush pear volumes sent to Far Eastern markets.
