Dried fruits China : USDA report 2010

For MY 2009/10 (October-September), China’s raisin production is estimated at 155,000 metric tons (MT), an 11 percent increase from the previous year due to favorable weather and expanded acreage. In September 2009, the local Turpan government suspended golden raisin production to comply with the new Food Safety Law (promulgated on June 1, 2009).

For MY 2009/10, China’s raisin imports are forecast to rebound to 13,000 MT, a 13 percent increase from last year due to expected recovery from the global financial crisis and strong demand for re-exports to Japan. In MY 2009/10, China exports are forecast at 35,000 MT, a 20 percent increase from last year. At the beginning of this marketing year, Chinese exports to Europe have been unusually strong because Turkish traders have not been very active in the market.

Domestic raisin consumption is steadily increasing because of rising incomes, more buyer emphasis on health and nutrition, and China’s fast-growing baking and confectionary sectors. Middle to upper class consumers are the largest purchasers of imported raisins. Post believes that the food processing and bakery sector may offer the best prospects for U.S. raisins. Education is extremely important to increase market share.

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