W50 Strawberry Update: Peruvian Strawberry Exports Decline, Florida Harvest Underway, and Korean Strawberries Gain Popularity

Peruvian Strawberry Exports Dropped by 6% YoY in Oct-23

In Oct-23, Peruvian strawberry exports decreased by 6% year-over-year (YoY), reaching 5.07 thousand tons. The main destinations were the United States (US) with a 41% market share, and Canada with 27%. Mebol SAC and Del Ande Alimentos SAC were the most prominent exporters, with 26% and 19% participation respectively.

Fooding in Cuzco, Peru, Affects Strawberry Production

Heavy rains have caused flooding in phytotents, affecting large strawberry production in Cuzco province in Peru. The district of Poroy is facing challenges due to deteriorating infrastructure, requiring motor pumps and backhoes. Neighborhoods request help from local and regional authorities to prevent further damage to the phytotents' infrastructure.

Florida Strawberry Harvest Begins with a Slight Delay Amid Cooler Weather

Strawberry harvesting in Florida is underway and experiencing a slight delay due to cooler weather. However, the crop looks good, with a cooler winter affecting berry size and supply. Christmas strawberry prices are currently ranging from USD 7 to USD 27. The Florida strawberry harvest is expected to continue until mid-Mar-24, with some growers extending their supply to local retailers until Apr-24. The first peak in strawberry production is anticipated in Jan-24, followed by a second peak around mid-Feb-24, which typically results in a significant increase in numbers.

Korean Strawberries Gain Popularity in the Vietnamese Market in W50

In W50, Korean strawberries are readily available in supermarkets, retail stores, and traditional markets. Korean strawberries are receiving enthusiastic responses from Vietnamese consumers. Korean strawberries prices in the Vietnamese wholesale market stood at USD 27 to 28 per 1.3 kilogram (kg) box, which includes four punnets of 330g each. In supermarkets, the retail price was around USD 9 to 10 per 330g punnet. In comparison, the retail price for local strawberries prices stood at a lower price of USD 4.2 per 250g punnet or USD 16.8/kg.

Five South Korean Premium Strawberry Varieties Were Exported in Malaysia

South Korean premium strawberry varieties, including Kuemsil, Sulhyang, King's Berry, Vitaberry, and Snowberry, have been officially introduced in Malaysia for the first time. The event aims to attract local industry players and increase awareness among Malaysian consumers. The initiative strengthens bilateral relations between South Korea and Malaysia. It reflects the collaborative efforts of the Korean Strawberry Export Integration Organization, Euro-Atlantic Sdn Bhd, and Khaishen Trading Sdn Bhd.