A recent report from iQonsulting predicts 1.8 million metric tonnes (MT) worth of apples will be exported from the southern hemisphere this year, representing a rise of 5% on 2010 figures.

The report said that all southern hemisphere apple suppliers will likely increase their apple exports, except Brazil which is expected to export 46% less than last season with 50,000MT. This expected decline in Brazilian apple exports is mainly due to local market development and the strength of Brazil's currency.

The report said New Zealand will likely have the highest increase in exports at 16%, with strong growth from the Jazz and Braeburn varieties of 27% and 25% respectively.

Argentina was expecting similar growth to the New Zealand situation, but there was a halt in fruit development in January, while a large number of fruits will need to be discarded due to low sizes. The report predicts Argentina will export a volume that is slightly higher than last season at 200,000MT.

South Africa's apple exports are expected to grow by 8% while Chile's apple exports will probably grow by 4%, at 320,000MT and 869,000MT respectively.

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com