Australia: Stone Fruit Annual
Cherry production for 2014-15 is forecast to expand to 18,000 MT, 12 per cent above the previous year, with the harvest area significantly revised upwards. Higher production is driven by improved seasonal conditions, especially in Tasmania, combined with rising prices in key export markets. Production of peaches and nectarines is expected to decline below 100,000 MT in 2014-15 due to adverse market conditions. These stone fruit gained entry to the Australian market in July 2013 and U.S. shipments are expected to increase further in the future. These are counter-seasonal to local production and allow a continuous supply to the market.
