China’s key kiwifruit producing regions Shaanxi and Sichuan, which were both hit by the devastating ‘5.12’ earthquake that struck south-west China's Sichuan province in May, have produced a larger crop than last year, industry players reveal.
The earthquake had a minimal effect on plantations, they say, although quality is inferior to last year.
According to Hanson Yang, kiwifruit branch chairman at the China Fruits Marketing Association, Shaanxi kiwifruit production is up by 30 per cent this year over last year thanks to new plantings and enhanced orchard management skills.
Sichuan, meanwhile, expects to produce 2,000 tonnes of Hongyang and 6,000 tonnes of Hayward this season.
“Its production volumes are higher than last year thanks to new trees bearing fruit. But quality is not as good as a normal year as a consequence of the earthquake,' said Mr Yang. “I am optimistic about Sichuan kiwifruit sales,” he adds.
Hayward, Hongyang and Qinmei remain the three main kiwifruit varieties grown in Shaanxi, with Qinmei accounting for the lion’s share.
“Generally speaking, production is greater than last year,” said Raymond Jin of shipper Golden Wing Mau. “The earthquake had a limited effect on the crop.”
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