A report released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) predicts Australian cherry production in the 2013/14 season will rise by 12 per cent.
The forecast for the coming season is currently at 14,000 metric tonnes, up from 12,400 metric tonnes in 2012/13.
This 2012/13 forceast had been revised from its original to be expanded by three per cent due to good harvest conditions.
Optimal seasonal conditions are thought to be driving the production increase for the coming season, although the report concedes this estimate could be revised if there is adverse weather during the harvest.
Australian cherries gained access to the Chinese market in January this year, with an initital shipment of 66 metric tonnes.
Access to cheap and efficient airfreight, as well as their geographical proximity, means that Australian cherries can reach China sooner than their competitor Chile, which provides cheaper produce. Australian cherries are also noted for their excellent quality.
However, this advantage applies only to Tasmania at present, as cherries from mainland Australia have their passage slowed by the need for cold-treatment before they are exported.
By contrast to the good fortunes of the cherry industry, peach and nectarine production is estimated to be set to fall by nearly 25 percent in the coming season to around 100,000 metric tonnes. This is the result of adverse market conditions, which have reportedly forced many growers to depart the industry.
However, Australian consumers' supply of stonefruit has been boosted by the recent market access granted to the US, which saw shipments commence immediately.
Industry experts forcast that total stonefruit exports to Australia are set to reach US$50m in value within the next five years.
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