China's grape export season is underway. "Red grapes remain the traditional export variety and still account for the largest share. However, since exports began in June, market demand for red grapes has been sluggish, with sales only about half of previous levels. Customers have become more cautious in placing orders, particularly in traditional markets such as India and Bangladesh," said Kyle Zeng of Shaanxi HoVo Import and Export Co., Ltd., for which grapes are a key export product.
"According to feedback from our clients, the volume of Chinese-grown fruit entering local markets has risen rapidly in recent years. This has led to the emergence of many new fruit export companies and created an oversupply of similar varieties. At the same time, local consumers are showing less interest in some long-established imported fruits, resulting in reduced purchasing frequency and slower sales."
"To adapt, we are diversifying our export portfolio. In addition to red grapes, this year we are exporting Crimson, Sweet Sapphire, Moldova, and Shine Muscat grapes. Instead of shipping a single variety per container, we now consolidate two to four varieties per container. In the past, these varieties were priced too high to be competitive, but with grape prices falling across the board this year, overseas consumers have had the opportunity to try them. Feedback has been encouraging, particularly for Crimson and Shine Muscat grapes, which are selling very well."
Shaanxi HoVo's core exports include bulk fruits such as grapes, citrus, and apples. Kyle explained that the company is also shifting toward developing smaller, high-quality fruits to meet changing market preferences. "We select fresh, premium fruits suitable for each destination market, ensuring supply can be staggered against similar products already available locally. Current exports include Xinjiang crabapples, and plums as well as mangoes and kiwifruit from various premium production areas."
Meanwhile, early-season Gala apples from China have already entered the export market. Kyle noted that limited supply has kept prices high, and this year's fruit is generally smaller in size. "Once the Fuji apple harvest begins and supply increases, prices are expected to come down."
Shaanxi HoVo's main export markets remain India, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia. "At the same time, we are actively exploring new destinations, including the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa, and Russia, tailoring our product mix to the needs of each market," Kyle added.