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Despite a sharp decline in apple yields across Europe, France's 2024 production remained stable at 1.4 million tons, slightly below 2023 but in line with the three-year average. While Golden and Gala varieties saw increases of 8% and 1%, respectively, others like Granny Smith and Fuji experienced declines of up to 30%. To address climate challenges, French growers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices such as precision irrigation and eco-friendly pest control. Meanwhile, French Interprofessional Association for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (INTERFEL) is enhancing its global market presence through promotional campaigns in Malaysia, including workshops, roadshows, and in-store sampling events to boost international demand for French apples.
Apple production in Jammu and Kashmir for the 2024/25 season is estimated at 2.03 million metric tons (mmt), similar to the previous year. However, growers report a 10 to 15% year-on-year (YoY) decline due to erratic weather and a prolonged dry spell. Despite stagnant prices in early 2023, the market has remained favorable, with the Delicious variety selling for USD 11.50 to 12 per 10-kilogram (kg) box and USD 17 to 18/14-kg box. Growers are selling stored apples before rising temperatures affect quality, with around 100 thousand metric tons (mt) already distributed nationwide. However, storage conditions have also been affected by weather challenges. A 35% rainfall deficit from Jun-24 to Sep-24, including an 81% shortfall in Shopian, has led to increased pest issues, further impacting fruit quality across the region.
Moldova has secured full market access for its apples in India after the Indian Ministry of Agriculture completed the necessary procedures on January 21, 2025. To comply with Indian regulations, Moldovan exporters must cold-treat apples before shipment, with certification handled by the National Food Safety Agency. In 2023, Moldova conducted trial shipments, exporting 340 tons of apples to India. Moldova, which produced around 450 thousand tons of apples in 2024 and cultivates over 20 varieties across 50 thousand hectares (ha), has expanded exports to the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia becoming its fourth-largest destination. Red apple varieties, particularly Red Chief, are in high demand in India, though Moldova faces competition from Turkey and Iran.
New Zealand apples have started entering the Chinese market, but supply remains limited. Large and small sizes are available, with prices similar to previous seasons. Meanwhile, American apples continue to dominate the imported apple market in China, though traders report that their overall quality has been lower this season, impacting sales. As New Zealand apples become more widely available, demand for United States (US) apples will decline.
Iran has implemented a 60-day export ban on apples starting February 24, 2025, in response to rising food prices and public concerns ahead of Ramadan. The move is expected to disrupt global markets, particularly in key importing countries such as India, while influencing apple prices in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and parts of Europe. With Iran exporting up to 1 million tons of apples in some seasons, the restriction may lead to price volatility, especially in Ukraine, from March to June. Although it aims to address domestic economic issues, analysts warn that the ban could further strain Iran’s economy by reducing foreign exchange earnings and exacerbating inflation.
In W9, apple prices in Italy remained stable at USD 1.78/kg, reflecting a 4.71% month-on-month (MoM) increase due to sustained export demand, particularly from Germany and France. This is coupled with a seasonal tightening of supply as the harvest period concludes. However, prices experienced a 6.32% YoY decline, primarily due to intensified competition from other European producers and increased domestic production volumes, which have exerted downward pressure on the market.
In W9, apple prices in the US slightly declined to USD 1.28/kg, marking a 0.78% week-on-week (WoW) decrease. This marginal drop is primarily attributed to stable storage levels and consistent supply from key producing states, which have met current market demand. However, there is a 5.79% YoY increase in prices, largely due to a 5% reduction in fresh apple inventories compared to the previous year, as reported in Feb-25. This tighter supply, combined with sustained consumer demand, has exerted upward pressure on apple prices over the past year.
Chilean apple prices in W9 declined by 12.42% WoW to USD 1.34/kg, marking a 27.57% MoM decrease and a 19.28% YoY drop. This price reduction is primarily due to weak international demand and increased competition from other Southern Hemisphere suppliers. Despite a projected 1% export growth for the 2024/25 season, profitability remains challenged by high freight costs and currency fluctuations, impacting pricing. Additionally, stricter European certification requirements, such as Linking Environment And Farming (LEAF) compliance, have added pressure on exporters, potentially limiting access to key retail markets. The ongoing decline in Chile’s apple production has also contributed to market volatility, though industry experts anticipate a recovery as demand strengthens in Latin America.
South Africa's apple prices in W9 declined by 13.89% WoW to USD 0.93/kg, with a 12.26% MoM decrease and a 34.97% YoY drop. This significant price reduction can be attributed to increased export volumes, as South Africa regained access to the Thai market after a 16-year hiatus, following Thailand's decision to lift import restrictions imposed due to phytosanitary concerns. This led to a surge in apple shipments. Additionally, projections indicate a 5% increase in apple exports for the 2025 season, further amplifying supply pressures. The heightened competition in international markets, and high production, has intensified downward pressure on prices.
In W9, apple prices in France declined by 6.71% WoW to USD 1.39/kg, with a 2.80% MoM decrease and an 8.55% YoY drop due to stable local production, which has mitigated the impact of lower overall European yields. While supply remains sufficient, weaker demand in key export markets, including Malaysia, has contributed to the price decline despite ongoing promotional efforts by INTERFEL. Additionally, shifting consumer preferences toward higher-yielding varieties like Golden and Gala have led to pricing adjustments, particularly as stocks of Granny Smith and Fuji remain limited. Competitive pressure from other European suppliers has further influenced market dynamics, keeping prices on a downward trend.
US apple exporters should strengthen quality control measures to maintain competitiveness against New Zealand apples. Implementing stricter sorting, improving cold storage conditions, and optimizing shipping times can help ensure better fruit quality upon arrival. Traders can also focus on premium-grade selections and targeted promotions to sustain demand as competition increases.
Apple growers in Jammu and Kashmir should adopt integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to mitigate pest issues caused by erratic weather. Using pheromone traps, organic sprays, and disease-resistant rootstocks can help protect fruit quality. Timely pruning and improved irrigation techniques can also reduce stress on trees and enhance yields despite rainfall deficits.
Sources: Tridge, EastFruit, Euroday, Freshplaza, Freightnews, Greater Kashmir, Interfel, Newsmaker, The Packer, Tradecouncil
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