Chinese avocado: a growing market focused on quality and sustainability
Chinese avocados arrived on the market in September, and due to a limited early harvest, initial prices reached levels similar to those of Chilean avocados, with 4 kg boxes valued at ¥130-140. However, as production increased in October, prices have fallen slightly compared to the previous year. This year, Bafang Agriculture adjusted harvest times to optimize dry matter content, which has improved avocado quality.
Bafang's farm is located in the Baoshan region of Yunnan, an area with ideal growing conditions. According to Zhang Wei, the favorable weather and reduced rainfall have resulted in an excellent harvest, albeit slightly delayed. Bafang has implemented sustainable practices such as composting grass clippings, eliminating herbicides, and applying organic fertilizers four times a year to improve soil health and fruit quality. This year, Bafang's production has grown significantly, with the goal of exceeding 1,000 tons next year.
To meet consumer preferences, Bafang has launched new packaging, such as gift boxes with 50-gram, nearly pitted avocados, and boxes with larger fruit, which have been well received, especially in Shanghai. With the Peruvian season ending and Chilean avocados becoming less available, Chinese production is well-positioned to meet demand between September and December, keeping the market stable.
Zhang Wei comments that Bafang is looking to connect directly with consumers and educate them on how to identify the origin and quality of avocados, which could further strengthen Bafang Avocado's position in the Chinese market.
Source: freshplaza.es
