The shipment of nectarines and plums comes in the wake of the signing of the phytosanitary protocol at the end of 2025
The first-ever shipments of South African Sugar Plum nectarines and plums have arrived by air to Shanghai, China in time to meet the high demand ahead of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Importer Topsun Fresh, in collaboration with South African exporter Delecta, held a container opening ceremony at the Huizhan Fruit and Vegetable Market on 9 February to mark the event.
The initial consignment included premium white- and yellow-fleshed varieties, with yellow nectarines fetching prices reportedly exceeding US$29 per 3 kg cartons. The product is being promoted primarily through livestreaming channels to quickly reach consumers in eastern China.
The first Sugar Plum Van der Merwe plums were delivered to companies including Xianfeng Fruit and Yidu Group on 10 February.
Known for their high Brix and exceptional juiciness, the arrival of the first Sugar Plums follows the signing of a phytosanitary protocol at the end of 2025 allowing South African peaches, nectarines, plums, and apricots to access the Chinese market.
South Africa has 16,000ha of stonefruit production and its season (October to April) competes directly with supply from Chile and Australia. The use of air transport allows the fruit to arrive in optimal condition of freshness just ahead of Chinese New Year, the peak sales season for that market.
