China’s Apple Imports Show Steady Growth, South Africa Emerges as Key Supplier
Over the past five years, China’s apple imports have experienced a fluctuating but upward trend, increasing from 75,748 metric tons in 2020 to 97,516 metric tons in 2024. South Africa, which first entered the Chinese market in January 2015 with its inaugural shipment of apples, has since become China’s second-largest apple supplier. This growth was highlighted during a recent online seminar hosted by Hortgro Pome, South Africa’s apple and pear industry association, on March 5.
Jacques du Preez, Hortgro Pome’s General Manager for Trade and Markets, provided a detailed overview of South Africa’s apple and pear production and export landscape during the seminar. He also engaged with Chinese importers to discuss the current market dynamics and future opportunities for South African apples and pears in China. Additionally, du Preez revealed that South African stone fruits are expected to gain access to the Chinese market this year, enabling exports during the winter and spring seasons.
South Africa’s Apple, Pear, and Stone Fruit Industry
Despite its relatively small production compared to China’s vast domestic output, South Africa is the largest apple producer in the Southern Hemisphere. The country harvests approximately 2 million metric tons of apples, pears, and stone fruits annually, with exports being the primary focus. South Africa boasts 38,000 hectares dedicated to apple and pear cultivation and 16,000 hectares for stone fruits. Leveraging its extensive experience in exporting to European markets, the country has developed a highly efficient supply chain, with 88% of production concentrated in the Western Cape province.
South Africa’s advanced controlled atmosphere storage facilities enable year-round apple supply, with peak exports occurring between January and May. This timing aligns perfectly with the seasonal gap in China’s domestic apple market. Over the past five years, South Africa’s apple cultivation area has remained stable, with a strong emphasis on upgrading older orchards with new varieties tailored to Asian markets, particularly China. Notable trends include a 20% increase in Fuji apple cultivation, a 29% rise in Red-Bi apples like Royal Gala, and significant growth in Joya (258%) and Flash Gala (Bigbucks) varieties. Meanwhile, green apple cultivation has declined sharply.
In 2024, South Africa exported 3,075 metric tons of pears to China, with Forelle pears accounting for 53%, followed by Celina (23%) and Cheeky (21%). South African pears are exported year-round, with peak shipments between January and March.
Du Preez also shared that a delegation from China’s General Administration of Customs inspected South African stone fruit orchards and packing facilities last year. As a result, exports of apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, and sugar plums to China are expected to commence in the 2025/26 production season. The next goal for South Africa’s fruit industry is to secure market access for cherries. The country produces approximately 182,000 metric tons of peaches and nectarines (primarily yellow-fleshed nectarines) and 93,000 metric tons of plums annually, with an export season from October to April, aligning with China’s winter and spring demand.
China’s Apple and Pear Import Trends
Mabel Zhuang, Editor-in-Chief of Produce Report, highlighted that China’s apple imports have shown a fluctuating upward trend over the past five years. New Zealand remains the top supplier, exporting a record 66,000 metric tons to China in 2024. South Africa follows as the second-largest supplier with 15,000 metric tons, while Chile ranks third with 9,040 metric tons. Notably, all of China’s major apple suppliers are located in the Southern Hemisphere.
China’s pear imports typically hover around 10,000 metric tons annually, peaking at 14,000 metric tons in 2023. Belgium, the first country to enter the Chinese pear market, has consistently held the top position. South African pears, which have only been available in China for three years, reached an export volume of 3,075 metric tons in 2024, closely trailing Belgium’s 3,204 metric tons. South African apples and pears are competitively priced, contributing to their growing popularity in China.
Market Performance of South African Apples and Pears in China
Jason Liu, International Procurement Manager at Shanghai Shengguo Trading Co. Ltd., shared insights into the performance and potential of South African apples and pears in the Chinese market. According to Liu, South African Fuji apples, with their slight tartness and rich flavor, offer a distinct taste profile compared to domestic varieties. Their crisp, sweet, and juicy texture has made them a favorite among Chinese consumers. Flash Gala apples, known for their high sweetness and vibrant appearance, have emerged as a popular variety in recent years, thanks to effective market promotion. Royal Beaut apples, with their delicate flesh and sweet taste, benefit from early maturation, providing a timing advantage that complements domestic supplies.
Despite rising prices, South African apples continue to attract repeat consumers due to their unique flavor profiles and off-season availability. However, Liu noted that brand recognition for South African apples is still developing and will require time to strengthen.
South African pears, with their distinct texture and flavor compared to Asian varieties, appeal to consumers seeking diverse taste experiences. Liu highlighted the Forelle pear as having significant potential, thanks to its vibrant appearance, balanced sweetness and tartness, and long shelf life, making it ideal for premium markets.
Strategic Recommendations for Growth
Liu emphasized the importance of brand promotion, expanding sales channels, optimizing supply chain management, and enhancing market education to drive further growth of South African apples and pears in China. He assessed their performance across various sales channels, including supermarkets, e-commerce platforms, and premium grocery stores, and expressed optimism about their future prospects in the Chinese market.
As South Africa continues to strengthen its position in China’s fruit market, its focus on quality, innovation, and strategic market engagement is expected to yield significant returns in the coming years.
