Original content
Strawberry prices in China surged by 39.04% year-on-year (YoY) due to delays in the harvest caused by unfavorable weather conditions, including high temperatures and rainfall. As of December 9, 2024, the nationwide average wholesale price reached USD 4.64/kg (RMB 33.83/kg), with regional prices varying widely, from USD 7.69/kg (RMB 56/kg) in major wholesale markets to as low as USD 0.42/kg (RMB 3.07/kg) in others. Retail prices have also risen, with strawberries selling for up to USD 21.92/kg (RMB 159.6/kg) in fruit stores. These price hikes are primarily due to a delayed harvest, with production in areas like Chengdu, Shanghai, and Hangzhou pushed back by around 20 days. However, prices are expected to stabilize as more strawberries enter the market.
The 2024 Egyptian strawberry season began in calendar W47, marked by high initial prices due to the absence of European produce. Prices are expected to decrease slightly as the season progresses, driven by market saturation and reduced orders. While strawberry quality and availability have been generally good, logistics issues, including limited freight space and import processing delays, have hindered delivery efficiency. Typically available until March, Egyptian strawberries will compete with Greek and later Spanish produce. The Fortuna and Festival varieties dominate imports, and Egypt plans to introduce single-layer 500-gram (g) trays for premium strawberries this year.
In Nov-24, Peruvian strawberry exports totaled 4.9 thousand tons, representing a 3% YoY decrease from the 5 thousand tons exported in the same month the previous year. The United States (US) remained the top destination, receiving 63% of the total exports, while Canada followed with 22% of the total export volume.
On December 15, 2024, the Philippines lifted its ban on Japanese strawberry exports following an agreement between the two countries. The embargo, initially imposed due to pest contamination concerns, was resolved through technical discussions between Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and Philippine quarantine authorities. This agreement allows Japanese strawberries to be exported to the Philippines again, enhancing their availability in the Philippine market.
Strawberry prices in the United Kingdom (UK) increased by 29% week-on-week (WoW) in W51, rising from USD 269.34/kg (GBP 3.71/kg) to USD 6.01/kg (GBP 4.80/kg). This significant price surge indicates a rise in demand or a reduction in strawberry availability. Meanwhile, other fruits, including apples, experienced slight price declines, with varieties like Bramley and Cox's Orange group apples seeing minor reductions. Despite fluctuations in other fruit prices, strawberries stood out with a sharp price growth during the week.
Florida’s strawberry season is ramping up, with farms in Zolfo and Plant City harvesting almost daily. Although Hurricane Milton caused a slight delay in Oct-24, production is expected to rise as warmer weather improves volume and fruit size. The season typically lasts until March, with local supply extending into early April, though weather conditions may affect this timeline. While demand remains strong, it has slightly softened due to increased imports from Mexico and higher local production. Organic strawberries are priced between USD 40 to 50/kg, while conventional strawberries are priced at USD 28 to 30/kg, similar to last year, although prices are expected to decrease in early Jan-25.
In W51, strawberry prices in Mexico dropped by 8.21% WoW to USD 2.57/kg due to an improved supply situation. Favorable weather conditions, including reduced rainfall and increased sunlight, supported higher harvest volumes, easing the supply constraints observed in previous weeks. Additionally, a slight softening in demand from export markets contributed to the weekly decline. Despite the WoW decrease, prices surged by 14.73% month-on-month (MoM) and 7.98% YoY. The MoM increase reflects the ongoing impact of tighter supply earlier in the season, while the YoY rise indicates a continued recovery from last year’s oversupply-driven low prices. Strong overall demand, particularly during the holiday season, and consistent export shipments underpin higher prices than in previous years.
In W51, strawberry prices in the US increased by 7.28% WoW and MoM to USD 6.48/kg, reflecting a 13.31% YoY rise. The price increase is due to limited supply as harvest volumes in primary producing areas like California remain low due to lingering impacts of adverse weather earlier in the season. While Florida's strawberry season is ramping up with improved harvests and better fruit quality, the supply boost has yet to fully offset the deficit from delayed production in other regions. Strong domestic demand and slightly reduced imports from Mexico have also supported the upward price trend. The YoY increase reflects a more significant supply disruption this year than the previous season, pushing prices higher across the market.
In W51, strawberry prices in Italy increased by 5.98% WoW to USD 7.80/kg due to a seasonal uptick in demand driven by the Christmas season, as consumers prioritize fresh produce for holiday celebrations. Additionally, winding autumn harvests have slightly tightened supply, contributing to the weekly price rise. However, MoM and YoY prices both declined significantly, dropping by 38.24% MoM and 34.18% YoY. The MoM decrease reflects the market's adjustment to the earlier oversupply during peak harvest periods in regions like Lazio and Emilia-Romagna. The YoY decline is due to a stronger production cycle this year than the previous season, which has kept prices lower despite the recent demand surge.
Florida's strawberry producers should focus on differentiating their offerings to maintain competitiveness amidst rising imports and increased local supply. Leveraging the demand for organic strawberries, producers can enhance their marketing strategies to highlight unique qualities such as freshness, local sourcing, and sustainable practices. Collaborating with retailers to emphasize these attributes in promotions and packaging will attract a broader consumer base. Additionally, exploring niche markets, such as premium organic or farm-to-table programs, will help secure stable demand and sustain profitability through the season.
Peruvian strawberry exporters should focus on diversifying their export markets beyond the US and Canada to reduce reliance on dominant destinations and mitigate risks associated with demand fluctuations. Targeting emerging markets in Asia or Europe with tailored marketing strategies and establishing partnerships with local distributors will expand their global footprint. Additionally, enhancing product quality and certifications to meet the preferences of new markets will strengthen competitiveness and support stable export growth.
Egyptian strawberry exporters should collaborate with logistics providers to secure additional freight capacity and streamline import processing to improve delivery efficiency and reduce delays. Introducing innovative packaging solutions, such as single-layer 500-gram trays for premium strawberries, will appeal to high-end markets and enhance product differentiation against Greek and Spanish competitors. These measures will ensure sustained demand and strengthen market presence throughout the season.
Sources: Tridge, Agraria, Böhmer Frische GmbH, Bova Fresh, Freshplaza, GMA News Online, Gov UK, Producereport
Read more relevant content
Recommended suppliers for you
What to read next
