Tasmanian export cherries launch in Hong Kong

Fruit Growers Tasmania | Monday, 6 January 2025, 4.05pm

The first promotional event of 2026 to mark the start of the Tasmanian export cherry season will be held on Wednesday 7 January in Hong Kong.

“We are excited to host this inaugural seasonal launch event in Hong Kong; a very important and long standing market for Tasmanian cherries”, said Peter Cornish, Chief Executive Officer of Fruit Growers Tasmania.

Invited guests will gather to hear about the 2025/26 season, future production growth and will have an opportunity to taste the first fresh Tasmanian export cherries.

Peter said, “We are fortunate to be supported by the Tasmanian Government to promote our fruit in export markets and have chosen Hong Kong as it always in the top three export markets that we supply with cherries. Last season Hong Kong received 22 per cent of the total export volume from Tasmania.

“There are difficult dynamics at play in competitive Asian markets with large volumes of imported fruit entering the market in preparation for the festive season. We understand that these shipped volumes continue to lower price expectations. However, we believe our fruit is markedly different!”

Tasmania is a small producer of premium quality fruit. Tasmanian cherries tend to be dark in colour, large and sweet and arrive in Asia, having travelled by air, within 72 hours of picking.

Peter added, “Our cherries are handpicked, cooled to 1-2 degrees Celsius then carefully packed into boxes to seal in the freshness. There is generally a range of different sized fruits, including plenty that are 34 mm and larger. We hope that customers recognize and appreciate the quality we offer.”

Due to cooler conditions in spring and early summer in Australia’s most southern, island state, the first Tasmanian cherries for the export market are running a little behind the normal schedule.

“This should work in our favour, as the Lunar New Year 2026 is a little later too!” remarked Peter. “Mother nature decides how the seasons fall and our growers always work with that.

“Tasmanian growers wish to convey their appreciation for the longstanding trade relationships that they have in Hong Kong and other parts of Asia and wish everyone a safe and prosperous Lunar New Year.

“As 2026 is the year of the Fire Horse, we feel it signifies the passion and determination of our growers and the importance of our trade relationships in a challenging trade environment.”