TAIWAN

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

Based on feedback from the retailers, a specific group of consumers was eagerly waiting for USA Pears to arrive at the market. As long as the price is reasonable and the quality was stable, the retailers could be very willing to launch and sell USA Pears. They also look forward to working with PBNW-Taiwan to conduct promotional activities to support the exposure and sales of US pears. Only a few importers remained positive in continuing the import USA Pears, citing the higher pricing caused by the decreased production volume this season, especially considering the wide variety of other fruits available in the Taiwan market. The willingness to import USA Pears decreases if the sales would not be profitable enough.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

USA Pears have not experienced any issues with shipping or delivery at the moment. While importers of Washington Apples experienced some shipping delays in late November, no one reported significant disruptions.

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

Size #110 - #125 Red and Green Anjou pears remain the most popular varieties among traders in Taiwan. PBNW-Taiwan collaborated with the retailers to carry a promotional campaign during the Christmas season, featuring the red and green colors to enhance appeal and traction.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Aside from the competitors from Japan or Korea, USA Pears also face the challenge of the wide variety of local fruits available at the wholesale market and retail channels. Furthermore, the locally-grown fruits often pose significant price advantages, which affects USA Pears’ position in the retail sector. The locally-produced fruits that were common to see included Asian pears, cherry tomatoes, guavas, bananas, and citrus.

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

Since the US elections have concluded, there have been no significant changes in trade policies, and importers also didn’t notice any big changes. As for consumer dynamics, most people started their preparation for the Lunar New Year holiday which is just a month away.

Other Brief Comments:

PBNW-Taiwan will keep following up with traders to confirm every import schedule for USA Pears and arrange suitable activity to promote USA Pears.