Australia's Soluna apples make landmark entrance into China

Soluna apples—known in Australia as the Bravo variety—have reached a new milestone for the Aussie fruit industry: the first mainland commercial shipment of apples to China.

This entry into the Asian Giant market is a partnership with two major fruit and vegetable distributors, Joy Wing Mau Group and RiverKing Group, who will manage brand promotion and development.

This launch follows Australia’s 2025 agreement for market access to the Chinese apple market.

The initial shipment of 80 metric tons marks a significant era for Australian exports to China, a market estimated by the Government of Western Australia to be worth over USD$10 million within the next two years.

To celebrate, the brand hosted the “Starry Night of Soluna” event on June 11 in Shanghai, bringing together partners to mark the arrival of the “fruit of the starry sky” in China.

Soluna: A focus on the premium category

As Chinese consumers increasingly favor premium fruits for their quality, flavor, and appearance, Soluna aims to position itself as a distinctive choice in the imported apple market.

Developed in Western Australia from a cross between Royal Gala and Cripps Red, this variety features deep burgundy skin, creamy white flesh, and a crisp, juicy texture with a balanced sweet-acid flavor profile.

Grown in Australia’s prime regions, these apples benefit from abundant sunshine and distinct day-night temperature variations that enhance their firmness and flavor.

The Bravo variety was developed by the Australian National Apple Breeding Program at the Manjimup Horticultural Research Institute.

Strategic partnerships to drive international expansion

Elliot Jones, general manager of WA Farm Direct, emphasized the importance of the Chinese market. The firm is responsible for international sales of the cultivar.

“China is one of the world's most important markets for premium apples. The successful launch of Soluna is a major achievement for Australian growers,” Jones said.

He added that the partnership with Joy Wing Mau and RiverKing Group will leverage their expertise and distribution networks to reach Chinese consumers.

During this first season, Soluna will implement a marketing program focusing on Australian origins and production quality through in-store activations and promotional initiatives.

Soluna production continues to scale to meet demand in Australia and international markets, including Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Western Australia’s Minister for Agriculture and Food, Jackie Jarvis, lauded the industry’s success.

“The Bravo apple is a Western Australian success story, and we are incredibly proud that it was developed by local researchers and growers,” she said.

*Photos courtesy of WA Farm Direct.

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