August 07

August 2007, World Apple Report Highlights

Would Consumers Choose Hair Shirts?
Critics of prevailing lifestyles are attempting to persuade consumers to make consumption choices that forgo fun, enjoyment and indulgence in favor of choices that fight global warming, conserve resources, curb pollution or save the planet. In the past, a few hermits and monks have been willing to don hair shirts and forgo earthly pleasures, but the mass of humanity has rejected such choices. Modern transportation, plastic packaging, and fatty products are just some of the most common targets of activists. The apple industry will be affected by how these battles between the hair shirt and the hedonist philosophies pan out.

The Economics of Buying Local
This article questions much of the rationale that has been proposed for consumers "buying local" rather than using the products of large-scale, commercial agriculture. It argues that there is little evidence that local products taste better, are more healthy, are better for the earth, are safer or provide a greater economic boost to local economies. Unless the local food offers unique characteristics or is competitive in price, quality and availability with competing supplies, it will not continue to earn the patronage of consumers.

Who's Tapping the Chinese Market?
China's prowess as an exporter is widely recognized. However, China has quietly become a major importer of many agricultural products. While almost every producing region in the world and most major producing countries have benefited from the growing Chinese market, the big winners in absolute terms have been the countries of Southeast Asia that have inked a free trade agreement with China. These countries supply China with tropical products such as bananas, longan and durian. However, the United States more than doubled its exports to China between 2000 and 2006, primarily with fresh table grapes, oranges and apples. Chile more than tripled its exports to China with fresh table grapes, apples, kiwifruit and sweet cherries.

Special Statistics

China: Official Imports of Edible Fruits and Nuts, 2000-2006 (table).
China: Major Suppliers of Edible Fruits and Nuts, Share of Imports, 2006 (chart).
United States: FOB Prices, Retail Prices and Marketing Margins for Red Delicious,
calendar years, 1997-2006 (chart).
World: Leading Exporters and Importers, by Value, 2006 (table).

The authoritative guide to the world apple business today.

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