Zespri evaluates direct China sourcing to counter unauthorized production
Add Fresh Fruit Portal to GoogleKiwifruit giant Zespri is weighing a new approach to protect its SunGold G3 kiwifruit brand in China. The firm is considering sourcing fruit locally to help counter unauthorized production and maintain year-round supply, the New Zealand Herald reported.
Company CEO Jason Te Brake said China-grown SunGold G3 kiwifruit has become increasingly competitive, particularly as New Zealand's season approaches its end.
The quality of the fruit continues to improve, he said, while the SunGold brand gains recognition and local distribution channels become more sophisticated. Meanwhile, New Zealand fruit quality can fluctuate more significantly late in the season, creating additional competition from Chinese production.
Zespri evaluates two supply strategies
To address the situation, the firm is discussing two potential approaches with New Zealand growers. The first would maintain a fully New Zealand-based supply by improving late-season fruit quality, developing varieties with longer shelf life and investing in new technologies.
The second would establish a tightly controlled sourcing and supply model in China to provide high-quality fruit throughout the year.
Te Brake emphasized that any proposal involving production in China must protect and create economic value for New Zealand growers. It would also need to establish clear incentives for local partners to meet Zespri's technical and commercial standards.
The company has yet to make a formal decision.
2026 season forecasts point to higher returns
Zespri's latest forecasts project a record 225 million standard retail cases, or about 810,000 metric tons, for the 2026 season.
According to the company's August forecasts, average returns per acre are expected to exceed the previous year's levels across all categories except Zespri Green and Organic Green.
*All images courtesy of Zespri
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