New Zealand Kiwi Harvest Reaches 270,000 MT

WELLINGTON - Feb 10/04 - SNS -- This year's kiwi harvest in New Zealand is expected to advance from 245,000 metric tons (MT) in 2003 to 270,000 MT because of optimal growing conditions in major growing regions.

The harvest remains about two months way, but initial field surveys point to a possible 9% gain in yields and an obvious increase in fruit size. With wind and frost damaged fruit volumes expected to be modest this year, a larger percentage of fruit will meet Zespri's export grade standards.

The U.S. agricultural attache here says this will allow export shipments in 2004 to reach 252,000 MT compared to 225,000 MT in 2003. The improved export availability facing New Zealand will allow Zespri to better meet its overseas sales demands. Zespri's effective marketing efforts are resulting in strong buying demand for New Zealand kiwifruit in key export markets.

In previous years, kiwifruit exports have been capped by limitations on the volume of fruit that met export standards. Zespri anticipates that the increase in shipping volume this year will have a dampening effect on sales prices. Grower sales price levels are forecast to fall to NZ$ 8 per tray (3.6 kilograms) in response to the additional volume offered for export and the appreciation of the New Zealand dollar witnessed over the past year.

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