Poland is expected to increase its cherry production by 6.2% year-on-year to 230,000 metric tons (MT), according to a report by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The report, prepared by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), attributed the rise to a 2012-13 winter that left orchards in very good shape.

"Unlike last year, there was no loss due to frost. Weather conditions during flowering and fruit setting were good," the report said.

"In 2012 high cherry prices and good farmer profitability contributed to an increase in acreage of cherries and peaches.

"It also resulted in an increase of investments and better care of cherry orchard."

Cherry exports are forecast to increase by 18% with Russia and Germany as the main destinations for fresh product, and the U.S. and Canada as the main markets for frozen cherries.

"In 2012, exports of frozen cherries to the USA rose to USD 25 millions, substantially above the 2007-11 average value of USD 150 thousand per year," the report said.

Poland accounts for more than half of the European Union's cherry production, while it is a world leader in the production and export of frozen sour cherries. Together with Turkey it is also the leader in cherry juice concentrate.

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