The World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) has welcomed a section of the China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs and Native Produce (CFNA) as a new member. 

The CFNA Apple and Pear Section's membership was formalized on Sept. 2 in Shaanxi during the International Fruit Conference.

WAPA president Daniel Sauvaitre attended a signing ceremony on behalf of the organization to mark the 'important milestone'.

WAPA was created in 2001 as a platform to address global challenges and to identify new opportunities for the apples and pears growers’ communities around the world.

The organization had incorporated the 20 leading apples and pears associations from both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, but untill now there had been no representative from the world's largest producer.

"The accession of CFNA to WAPA is a significant steps for the global representation of WAPA, given the great potential of the Chinese apples and pear production," Sauvaitre said.

"I am very pleased that we have filled this gap and identified the right partner to add a Chinese voice at the table of the Association, as this will further enhance the global discussions of the Association."

With inclusion of the Chinese member, close to 70% of the apple and 90% of the pear production is now represented in WAPA.

WAPA vice president and head of the U.S. Washington Apple Commission Todd Fryhover said getting China on board would benefit all members.

"China is by far the leading producer, but also represents a growing market for many apple and pear suppliers around the world," he said.

"The participation of China in the efforts of WAPA to boost the category and move production towards varieties demanded by consumers is a clear added value for all."

As WAPA is welcoming a member from China, it is also currently in the final stages of concluding other membership engagements.

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