US targets China's PH fruit market

The United States (US) aims to introduce new fruit varieties to the Philippines to boost its share of the import market, which has long been dominated by China.

- DEXTER BARRO II

In a market brief published last week by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), American exporters were urged to introduce innovative fruit varieties to the country to sustain the momentum in apple exports.

The USDA expects exports of fresh fruits to fall by at least seven percent to around $13 million this year from $14 million in 2024.

Despite this, the foreign agency said shipments of apples to the country will grow this year, driven by the popularity of the Ambrosia, Cosmic Crisp, and SugarBee varieties.

These varieties were introduced to the Philippine market last year and have since gained traction among consumers.

"Consumers are eager to try new-to-market fruit varieties and share their experiences on social media," the report read.