Weekly updates on the kiwis market
Kiwi fruit is available in markets year-round since global production occurs across different countries, with the main producing regions being New Zealand, Europe, and Chile. In Europe, the leading producers include Italy, France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain. Italy is the second-largest exporter globally, accounting for 14.3% of international exports, with key destinations including Germany, France, Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands. Global kiwi production in 2023 is estimated at 4.5 million metric tons, with a 5-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.60% projected for the forecast period from 2024 to 2029. Specifically, the European Kiwi Fruit Market was valued at USD 1.59 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 2.10 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.70% during the forecast period (2023-2028).
Adverse weather conditions have impacted production yields in Europe this year. Italian orchards have been hit by drought and the phytosanitary disease "Moria," resulting in an expected 40% decrease in production yields. Similarly, in Greece, mild winter temperatures, drought, and prolonged high temperatures did not meet the chilling requirements for kiwi trees in key producing regions. However, producers report that despite these unfavorable conditions and the potential for early harvesting, the upcoming crop shows promising quality and fruit sizes.
IKiwi has become one of the most in-demand fresh produce globally, driven by consumers' increasing preference for healthier diets and the fruit's nutritional value. This rising demand is also boosting fruit sizes and higher production volumes, benefiting both production and trade.
Kiwi Fruit Faces Supply Chain Challenges
The global kiwi fruit market faces significant challenges due to supply chain issues, which threaten the industry's growth and expansion. Transporting kiwi fruit from farmers to markets, especially for international exports, involves complex logistics and requires careful handling. Issues such as logistical bottlenecks, inadequate storage facilities, and transportation delays can result in spoilage and a decline in product quality. Since kiwi fruits are highly perishable, maintaining temperature-controlled conditions is critical to preserving their freshness and nutritional value during transit. Additionally, the international nature of the kiwi fruit industry requires growers to navigate various legal regulations and customs procedures, which further complicate logistics and increase costs. However, growers and exporters who invest in robust supply chain solutions to mitigate these risks can ensure that kiwi fruits reach consumers on time, benefiting both product quality and profitability. Addressing these supply chain challenges is essential to delivering various kiwi fruit varieties to consumers while maintaining reasonable prices for producers.
From Green to Gold: The Rise of New Kiwi Varieties
The global kiwi market has long been dominated by the green Hayward variety, which accounts for nearly 90 percent of total production. However, in recent years, other varieties—particularly the yellow or "gold" kiwi—have surged in popularity. This variety is notable for its vibrant mustard-yellow flesh and unique tropical flavor. It offers a less acidic, more refreshing taste compared to traditional green kiwis. Alongside gold kiwis, new "red" kiwi varieties have emerged, captivating consumers with their high sugar content, creamy texture, and striking red center. These red kiwis are celebrated for their distinctive sweetness and are gaining rapid traction in the market.
Among the innovative kiwi varieties is the hardy "mini kiwi" or "baby kiwi" (arguta), a smaller fruit similar in size to a grape. It can withstand cold temperatures and has smooth, hairless skin, allowing for the entire fruit to be eaten. Similarly, the Kolomikta, or "arctic kiwi," thrives in colder climates and is hairless, with vitamin C content ten times higher than that of the Hayward kiwi.
One of the most exciting developments is the introduction of the new red kiwi variety, which boasts an earlier harvest window than yellow kiwis, extending market availability and increasing its appeal. Demand for the red-fleshed kiwi is growing, with consumers praising its unparalleled sweetness, flavor, and shelf life. Extensive promotional campaigns are underway to boost its presence in European and overseas markets, solidifying its status as a top-tier fruit.
Prices in the European Market
European wholesale markets currently feature offerings from New Zealand, Chile, and the first imports from Greece. Chile has faced challenges in exporting to Europe due to high transit costs and lengthy shipping times, resulting in limited success in the region. New Zealand's supply is also limited, creating opportunities for European fruits to enter the market. While there is some competition, the rising demand has left little room for significant price increases. Greek Hayward kiwis are expected to be harvested on October 15, as announced by the Greek government. The price for green kiwis from Greece was recently set at €2.53/kg for sizes 30/33.