Market Trends of Fresh Cherries Industry
Increasing Demand for Imported Sweet Cherries
The market is witnessing a surge in demand for imported regional varieties, with Turkey and the United States as the primary sources. Major importing and consuming nations, notably Europe and China, are driving this demand. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that in 2023, Turkey exported 215 thousand metric tons of cherries, generating USD 83 million in revenue. This success can be attributed to heightened investments and an expanding cultivation area, both spurred by robust export demand. Turkish cherries, especially the Napoleon, Ziraat 900, and Regina varieties, are celebrated for their large size, vibrant deep red hue, and delightful sweetness. Their size and flavor profile make Turkish cherries a favored choice, whether for fresh consumption or diverse culinary applications.
Cherries hold significant importance as a daily fresh fruit in China. Major imports come from Chile, largely due to a zero-tariff free trade agreement established in 2021 and Chile's optimal ripening period from November to January, coinciding with China's Spring Festival celebrations. Data from the ITC Trade Map revealed that China imported 334,000 metric tons of fresh cherries from Chile, amounting to a value of USD 255 million. Renowned for their consistent quality, deep color, and sweet flavor, Chilean cherries are available from November to February, perfectly timing with the Chinese New Year festivities. To cater to the surging domestic demand, China also ramped up imports from countries like Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Notably, these cherries, cultivated with fewer pesticides, boast high quality.
In the United States, cherry varieties such as "Cherry Grand" and "Cherry Treat" are gaining popularity. These varieties are not only larger but also sweeter than the traditional "Chelan" variety. This heightened appeal has led to increased demand from neighboring countries such as China and Japan. The global surge in demand for fresh cherries has translated into heightened sales of imported cherries, prized for their larger size and sweeter taste. Additionally, as cherries are perceived as a convenient and nutritious choice, the growing trend of healthy snacking further propels the market’s growth.
Turkey is the Leader in Cherry Production
Turkey is the world's leading cherry producer, closely followed by Chile. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization, in 2022, Turkey's cherry production reached 656,041 metric tons, followed by Chile at 443,067 metric tons. Turkey's varied climates and soils create optimal conditions for cultivating several cherry varieties, notably the sought-after Napoleon, Ziraat 900, and Regina varieties. Cherry cultivation thrives in Turkey's North Anatolian and Taurus mountains. Cherries flourish naturally on the slopes and river valleys of the North Anatolian Mountains, the Western and Central Taurus Mountains, and at elevations of 1,000-1,500 meters on the Mediterranean side of the Eastern Taurus Mountains, ensuring harvests of exceptional quality.
The cherry season in Turkey commences in late May and continues until early August, with the specific duration influenced by regional variances and weather patterns. Typically, the pinnacle of cherry harvesting in Turkey occurs during June. Renowned as one of the leading global producers of cherries, Turkey exports its harvest to numerous nations, including Europe and the Middle East.
Additionally, Turkey has made significant strides in cherry production technology, solidifying its status as a top global cherry producer. The country has evolved from traditional methods to modern high-density orchards. These state-of-the-art orchards, utilizing dwarfing rootstocks and sophisticated training systems, boost yields and enhance fruit quality. Furthermore, Turkey has pioneered cutting-edge automated packaging technologies for cherries, markedly improving efficiency and quality control. For instance, in 2024, Turkish cherry packhouse StePacPPC launched its Xflow technology with an automated packing and grade-sorting system that addresses the pressing need for streamlined operations while maximizing productivity. Such innovations have cemented Turkey's leadership in the global cherry market, consistently delivering high-quality produce that aligns with international standards.
