Fruit news from SA and NZ

The USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service has released reports on apples and pears from New Zealand and South Africa. The NZ report reveals USDA forecasts an increase of 6% for harvest and 13% greater exports for the coming season. Growing demand for no residue and organic apples is noted, along with observations about consolidation and variety trends. Currently, about 8% of NZ's apples are organic and that number is expected to grow.

For South Africa, the USDA reveals that 2007 production of deciduous fruit is rated 5% higher, with exports of fresh pears projected 6% up and apples 12% more than last year. Grapes will decline 4%, the FAS says.

In the always confusing world of Market Access Program fund allocations, the USDA has issued a news release of who gets what for export promotions. Kevin Moffitt of the Pear Bureau notes that the agency has told recipients that the 2007 allocations will come in several installments this year.