Australian cherry season delivers 22 percent value uptick

The Australian cherry industry scored a sweet finish to the 2025/26 season, as rising demand and higher prices for premium fruit boosted export volume and value, according to Cherry Growers Australia. 

By February of this year, shipments had reached 5,456 tons, valued at approximately $78.67 million. This delivered a 13 percent year-on-year increase in export volume, while value increased 22 percent.

The regions of Tasmania and Victoria supplied over 90 percent of the exported fruit.

Photo by Cherry Growers Australia

Asia remains the Australian cherry sector’s focus

The industry benefited from airfreight logistics that moved Australian cherries into key Asian markets within 72 hours of harvest, helping maintain fruit quality during transit.   

Cherry Growers Australia CEO Penny Measham said the positive results were also enhanced by coordinated industry planning and quality management.

“This season shows what’s possible when the industry delivers consistently high-quality fruit and works together under a clear national approach,” she said.

Hong Kong remained Australia’s largest export destination during the season, while Vietnam and China posted significant growth, supported by late-season demand and available supply.

“Strong export growth, rising market returns, and repeat demand from our key Asian markets all point to confidence in Australian cherries as a premium product,” Measham added.

The domestic market also recorded strong quality outcomes, which the industry attributed to handling practices and investment in postharvest quality systems.

“Quality underpins everything we do,” the executive stated. “When we get quality right, from orchard through to consumers, we protect our reputation, strengthen demand and deliver better outcomes for growers.”

The release also noted that the 2025/26 season marked progress toward the industry’s long-term objective of building a productive, profitable, and sustainable Australian cherry sector.

*Main photo by Australian Cherry Growers. Other images are referential.

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