While New Zealand's kiwiberry sector has suffered a setback through the suspension of the Chinese market, growers and exporters are wasting not time finding opportunities elsewhere.

Auckland-based Freshmax recently launched an innovative new retail pack for the fruit designed for the Singapore market, in the form of an on-the-go snack cup.

Freshmax has been working with Singaporean importer Tian Sheng to develop the pack format, which along with supermarket Cold Storage Singapore has found sales of the new line to be "extremely positive".

In a release, Freshmax said consumers were very curious about kiwiberries and the product was attracting attention because the packaging was so different compared to the standard berry punnet.

"This new line has been a winner for Freshmax, Tian Sheng and Cold Storage Singapore," said Freshmax export manager Tracey Burns.

"Sales are strong with consumers making repeat purchases.  We are finding that consumers are asking a lot of questions about kiwiberries and are really embracing the concept that kiwiberries are the perfect healthy on the go snack option."

www.freshfruitportal.com