Oneonta Starr Ranch Getting Ready to Ship Apples to China
WENATCHEE, WA – Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers (OSRG) is ready to ship apples to China starting the first week of November.
As we previously reported, China is once again buying Washington apples after a two-year market closure. That country will import both Red and Golden Delicious apple varieties.
In a press release, OSRG Marketing Director Scott Marboe said the reopening of China is especially good in this record-breaking production year.
“As the leading export company in the state, we are thrilled we are back in the Chinese marketplace,” Marboe said. “We are known for our expertise in the region and for the work we did in the initial opening of the Pacific Rim. Now that restrictions have been lifted, we're confident China will continue to be a very valuable market for the state.”
Export Sales Manager Steve Reinholt agreed, adding, “Reds will make up 98 percent of what we ship, and we have a tremendous crop this year. It is the quality of fruit that is well-received there – big size and good color and texture with excellent flavor. It should fit into the Chinese market very well.”
In August of 2012, the Chinese government stopped imports, citing fungus concerns. Plant inspectors and officials from both nations have negotiated over the past two years before reaching a deal.
China has been one of the biggest markets for Washington apples in the past. In the 2010-11 shipping year, it imported more than 3 million cartons of apples from the Evergreen State.
The state of Washington produces nearly 90% of all U.S. apple exports. AndNowUKnow will continue to track the effects that the reopening of this market will have on the apple market.
