CEO ' s Report
Using my pocket refractometer , I tested numerous batches of Australian white-fleshed nectarines ( Polar Lights ) over the time I was in Guangzhou ( 21 – 25 November ). Brix ranged from 7.2 to 9.7 , with an average of around 8.0 . I was particularly dismayed at three pallets which averaged 7.2 – 7.6 Brix .
Although an average opening price for generic brand nectarines was around $ 90 / box , by the end of that week it had fallen to $ 53 or lower . Operators were very unhappy about paying 130 to 150 Yuan ($ 25 to $ 30 ) to move product from Hong Kong to Guangzhou , only to be unable to sell it due to the poor quality . As one trader said : “ Firmness is very much , but sugars MUST be ”. This is a market that demands sweetness above all , and Australia supplied them with third-grade fruit .
It has been a difficult start to the season for all Australian stonefruit producers . Cool , wet weather has delayed fruit maturing , and kept sugar levels low .
Chengdu
Chengdu is a major population centre for inland China . This area is the source of both the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers , and Chengdu , together with nearby Chongqing , has a population greater than that of Shanghai with 10.5 million inhabitants in the combined built-up area including Xinjin County and Deyang ’ s Guanghan City .
As of 12 December , regular direct flights have started from Adelaide to Chengdu City . Together with the ready availability of quarantine inspection facilities and cool stores , this represents a great opportunity for Australian exporters to expand this market .
To grow our first year of exports , industry plans for the “ Now in Season ” campaign are already well in place . These will commence just after our New Year and will
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6 Australian Stonefruit Grower | December 2016 summerfruit . com . au