Question 1

What is the risk of woolly breakdown in peaches during sea freight?

Accepted Answer

Woolly breakdown (internal breakdown/mealiness) is triggered in peaches and nectarines when held at 2–8°C for extended periods — the "danger zone" for this disorder. Sea freight temperatures of 0°C (the optimal CA temperature) are safer than 2–5°C for most varieties. However, even at 0°C, transit exceeding 3–4 weeks can cause woolly breakdown in susceptible varieties. Buyers should request specific variety susceptibility data from suppliers and ensure destination ripening protocols include a warming period (18–20°C for 1–2 days) before retail to restore normal texture.

Question 2

Why are Chilean cherries so important for the Chinese market?

Accepted Answer

Chile is the world's leading cherry exporter to China, shipping approximately 300,000 tonnes per season (November–February). Chilean cherries benefit from: counter-seasonal availability (Chinese New Year demand peaks in January–February); large berry size (≥30 mm is premium grade for Chinese buyers); dark red Bing and Lapins varieties preferred; and FTA between Chile and China enabling duty-free access (previously 10% tariff). Chilean cherry exports to China have driven a massive industry expansion — Chile now plants approximately 20,000 ha of cherries annually.

Question 3

What size specification is required for export cherry wholesale?

Accepted Answer

Standard export cherry sizing: 24–26 mm (Row 7.5–8) for standard commercial; 26–28 mm (Row 8–9) for premium; 28+ mm (Row 9+) for premium/ultra-premium Chinese market. Chilean cherries targeting China must be predominantly ≥26 mm for Grade A. South African export cherries (Ceres/Villiersdorp) must meet PPECB grade standards: minimum 20 mm for Class I. US Washington Bing and Lapins for premium export are graded by row size with premium at Row 9.5+.

Question 4

What is the typical MOQ for wholesale stone fruit export?

Accepted Answer

Standard MOQ for wholesale stone fruit export is one full reefer container (20-foot ~17–18 tonnes net or 40-foot ~20–22 tonnes net for cherries in 5-kg cartons). For new supplier relationships, buyers often start with a partial container (LCL/FCL split) for product evaluation before committing to full-season contracted volumes. Chilean cherry exporters require advance booking for peak Chinese New Year supply — contracts for prime December–January slots are typically placed 3–6 months ahead.

Question 5

What documentation is required to import stone fruit into the EU?

Accepted Answer

Fresh stone fruit imports into the EU require: (1) EU plant health import certificate (phytosanitary certificate) from the exporting country NPPO; (2) EU Official Border Control Post (BCP) inspection (physical, identity, and documentary checks — frequency varies by origin risk rating); (3) GlobalGAP or equivalent certification documentation if required by buyer specification; (4) Commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/AWB; (5) For organic: EU organic import authorisation from member state competent authority. No specific EU MRL pre-import testing is mandatory but buyers should commission pre-shipment laboratory testing from ISO 17025 accredited labs.

Wholesale Peach, Nectarine & Stone Fruit Suppliers

Stone Fruit Categories and Commercial Varieties

Wholesale Peach, Nectarine & Stone Fruit Suppliers

Stone Fruit Categories and Commercial Varieties

Freestone vs Clingstone: Processing vs Fresh Market

CA Storage and Woolliness Prevention

EU Class Standards and Maturity Indices

Key Export Origins

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the risk of woolly breakdown in peaches during sea freight?

Why are Chilean cherries so important for the Chinese market?

What size specification is required for export cherry wholesale?

What is the typical MOQ for wholesale stone fruit export?

What documentation is required to import stone fruit into the EU?

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