Partnership with Joy Wing Mau and Riverking Group opens a new chapter for premium imported apples

Image: WA Farm Direct

Soluna Australian apples, a premium apple brand, has officially entered the Chinese market, marking a significant milestone for the commercialisation of Australian apples in China.

The launch is being driven in partnership with two of China’s leading fresh produce companies, Joy Wing Mau Group and Riverking Group, heralding a new chapter for Soluna in one of the world’s most important premium fruit markets.

Following market access approval in 2025, the first commercial shipment of Soluna apples represents a major step in the brand’s global expansion and further strengthens agricultural trade ties between Australia and China.

To celebrate the launch, Soluna hosted its debut event, Starry Night of Soluna, on 11 June at W Shanghai – The Bund. Set against Shanghai’s iconic skyline, guests, partners and industry leaders participated in lighting a large-scale Soluna installation, symbolising the arrival of the “Starry Sky Fruit” from Australia into China.

Soluna apples will be positioned to cater to Chinese consumers seeking premium fruit experiences, with a combination of visual appeal, exceptional flavour and consistent quality highlighted as part of the brand’s proposition.

Image: WA Farm Direct

“With their deep burgundy skin and creamy white flesh, Soluna apples offer striking visual appeal. Their crisp, juicy texture and balanced sweet-tart flavour profile deliver a distinctive eating experience, while their reliable quality and strong shelf performance make them well suited to premium retail channels,” the brand said in a release.

“Grown in Australia’s leading apple regions, Soluna apples benefit from pristine natural conditions, abundant sunshine and significant day–night temperature variation. These factors contribute to their concentrated flavour and firm texture, supported by rigorous growing and grading standards that ensure consistency and quality.”

Elliot Jones, general manager of WA Farm Direct, said strong international partnerships would help support Soluna’s entry into China.

“China is one of the world’s most important markets for premium apples. The successful introduction of Soluna Australian apples represents a major achievement for Australian growers. We are delighted to partner with Joy Wing Mau and Riverking Group, whose established networks and market expertise will help bring this exciting new brand to Chinese consumers,” said Jones.

Joy Wing Mau and RiverKing Group will jointly manage channel development and brand promotion. Their extensive networks across major cities and premium retail channels will accelerate Soluna’s market reach. 

“Chinese consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality fruit with exceptional flavour and clear provenance. Soluna offers a compelling combination of all three, and we are confident it will resonate strongly with both retail partners and consumers,” Jones said.

During the initial launch phase, Soluna will roll out an integrated marketing program centred on its Australian origin, growing philosophy and product experience. Through in-store activations, consumer engagement and strategic partnerships, the brand will steadily build awareness and loyalty.

In its first commercial season, the focus will be on establishing a strong market foundation. With targeted channel strategies and long-term brand investment, Soluna aims to build a differentiated position in China’s premium imported apple segment.

The launch of Soluna Australian apples reflects Australia’s ongoing commitment to supplying high-quality agricultural products to China, while also demonstrating the strength of collaboration across the value chain – from growers and exporters to importers and retailers.

“As demand for premium and specialty fruit continues to grow, Soluna brings a distinctive new offering to the market, contributing fresh momentum to the imported apple category and creating further opportunities for Australia–China agricultural trade,” the brand said in a release.