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February 2003, World Apple Report Highlights

Demand Subtly Changing
The demand for apples and many other foods has been subtly changed over time by a number of long-term trends and sudden shocks. Among the positive trends have been increasing space allocated by retailers to produce and the support of major educators and opinion leaders for increased consumption of fruits. Among the negative trends have been increased eating away from home and the growing market power of food retailers. Among the shocks to the system have been the energy crisis of the 1970s, and concerns about food safety in the 1990s.

International Competitiveness Rankings, 2003
The annual World Apple Report survey of international competitiveness shows two countries, Chile and New Zealand, running neck and neck in first place. Countries are evaluated in terms of production, infrastructure and inputs, and financial and marketing strengths. The U.S. was in seventh place behind four European countries, France, Austria, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Venezuela's Agony
Venezuela's economy and politics is being torn apart by a bitter dispute over the efforts of incumbent president, Hugo Chavez, to grab control of more seats of power. Prior to the dispute, Venezuela was among the fastest growing importers of both fresh apples and fresh pears in the world. That trade has now ground to a halt. There is major concern that Venezuela's problems may spread to neighboring countries.

Special Statistics
Venezuela: Imports of Fresh Apples and Fresh Pears, Calendar Years, 1995-2001 (chart)
Competitiveness Rankings of Major World Apple Suppliers, 2003 (table)
The Netherlands: Apple Trade Center (chart)
United States and European Union: Estimates of Support to Agriculture, 2001 (table)

The authoritative guide to the world apple business today.

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