Australian Apples Open Chinese Market, Expected to Export to China by May Next Year!
On July 15, Premier Li Qiang of China held the 10th annual prime ministerial meeting with Australian Prime Minister Albanese. After the talks, the two prime ministers jointly witnessed the signing of multiple cooperation documents in areas such as trade, customs inspection and quarantine, and agriculture.
According to Australian media reports, the two sides signed protocols on the export of Australian mainland apples to China and Chinese red dates to Australia. Additionally, although Australian blueberries have not yet been granted market access, China has agreed to prioritize negotiations on this matter.
Previously, due to concerns about fruit fly issues, China had only allowed apple exports from Tasmania since 2010. Currently, China is Australia's largest agricultural and forestry export market, with exports reaching 16 billion Australian dollars in 2024, and the Australian apple industry is one of the country's largest horticultural industries.
In the 2023/24 growing season, Australian apple production exceeded 680 million Australian dollars, with output near 300,000 tons, 90% of which comes from the mainland region. While some growers hope to export immediately after harvesting in February next year, most still need to adjust varieties and quality, with export activities expected to begin in May next year.
Australia has cultivated renowned apple varieties like Pink Lady and Bravo, currently growing mainly Pink Lady, Royal Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji, and Red Delicious varieties.
Australian apples have long relied on the domestic market and are highly concentrated in the two major supermarket systems of Coles and Woolies, with extremely low bargaining power. After the China-Australia protocol signing, Australian apple growers have gained an excellent opportunity to break free from supermarket giants.
Apple growers in Western Australia have announced plans to export Bravo variety apples to China next year, under the brand name Soluna. This variety features a deep purple skin and white flesh, with crisp texture, a refreshing taste, and a slightly sweet and tart flavor. Commercial cultivation began in Manjimup eight years ago. Soluna apples have recently focused on expanding export markets, particularly in the Middle East and Asian regions.