CHINA

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

On December 22, a container of USA Red Anjou imported directly by a retailer arrived in Shenzhen and is still in the process of customs clearance. The subsequent imports will depend on tariff changes and shipping schedules. In early December, about 300 boxes (40lbs/box) of USA Red Anjou were available in another retailer. The quality was quite good with a fine movement. Up to now, a major importer has not been able to order USA Pears suitable for the Chinese market due to this year's high prices and the Chinese market slump.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

None at this time.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

US1 Green Anjou and Red Anjou with size 70-80.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Six containers of the Dutch Conference and five containers of Belgian Conference arrived in China. The quality & movement were acceptable with stable wholesale prices. Six containers of South African Forelle arrived in China. The quality was acceptable with slightly increased wholesale prices and a fine movement. Domestic pears hit the market in large quantities, with varieties of Fragrant, Autumn Moon, Housui, Ya, Snowflake and Crown. The quality levels varied with stable wholesale prices, and the movement was acceptable. The import volume of Chilean cherries is expected to reach 30,000 containers this year, an increase of about 50% year-on-year. Chilean Cherries grab the best shelf resources and take up most of the importers' money and energy, a significant obstacle to the sale of all fruits.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

The U.S. dollar exchange rate hit another record high, pushing up the cost of importing USA Pears. So far, the tariff issue between the U.S. and China is still unclear, and most importers remain on the sidelines.

Other Brief Comments:

None at this time.