A Spanish produce industry group says the recently announced opening of the Chinese market to Spanish stonefruit could open up new opportunities for growers hit by the Russian ban. 

On Wednesday, a representative of Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment signed a protocol in Beijing, which opens the Chinese market to Spanish plums, peaches and nectarines.

The event brings results from what has been a long process involving Spanish authorities and China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ)

Federation of Fruit, Vegetable, Flower and Live Plant Grower Exporter Associations (FEPEX) director general José María Pozancos told www.freshfruitportal.com the signing was an "historic milestone".

"China is one of the most important potential markets in the world which until now has been practically closed to European stonefruit imports," Pozanos said.

"This agreement is very important as Spain will be the only EU member authorized to export [stonefruit] to China. Chinese inspectors still have to visit to verify on the ground the compliance of requirements from AQSIQ.

"The EU will continue to be the main market for exports from Spain with more than a 90% participation, especially in countries with larger populations and demand like Germany, France and the United Kingdom."

In terms of potential import competition, Taiwan is currently allowed to ship plums and peaches to the Chinese mainland, while the U.S., Chile and New Zealand have access for plums.

The Spanish stonefruit season starts in May and runs through to September, prompting the executive to believe some shipments will be sent this season.

Lead photo: www.shutterstock.com

www.freshfruitportal.com