Sales of Mexican avocados in France increase after promotional effort, agencies say

A joint promotional campaign to reposition Mexican avocados in the French market has concluded with an increase in sales of up to 200% in one supermarket chain.

November 05 , 2010

Chile’s apple, pear, grape exports for 2011 depend on weather, exchange rate, USDA says

Especially cold winter provided enough cold hours, but frost may limit production. Unfavorable exchange rate is limiting investments.

November 05 , 2010

Market competition challenges Australian citrus growers

Strong Australian dollar has exporters in other fruit sectors considering dropping prices.

November 04 , 2010

Water will be biggest factor for Chile’s grapes as climate changes, expert says

As the effects of climate change increase global temperatures, Chile’s central valley -- home to its grape industry -- will experience a decline in rainfall.

November 04 , 2010

Argentina’s Expofrut closes pear processing plant

Closure will eliminate 50 jobs 2 months after layoffs of 534 workers in table grape operations

November 04 , 2010

Chiquita takes third-quarter loss on lower salad, banana sales

Revenue fell 8 percent, missed estimates

November 04 , 2010

Harvest Trends, week 43

Weather problems in Chile could impact early, nearly ripe cherries, but the overall export estimates remain.

November 03 , 2010

Zespri considers Vietnam for kiwi

Exporter would license and pay farmers in the Southeast Asian nation to grow the fruit, but the possibility of government aid angers Turners & Growers.

November 03 , 2010

USDA opens U.S. to bulk shipments of Mexican avocados

The USDA amended import regulations for Mexican avocados to allow the shipment of bulk packages of the product.

November 03 , 2010

Del Monte 3Q net income drops on Guatemala banana costs, exchange rates

An increase in costs associated with banana production in Guatemala due to flooding, a poor market in Europe and unfavorable exchange rates in producing countries hit Del Monte's bottom line.

November 03 , 2010