Ecuador reforms banana industry laws to protect growers, regulate illegal fields

Ecuador is overhauling the rules for its banana industry, aiming to bring illegal fields under regulation, to enforce contracts and to fine those who do not pay the official price per carton for the fruit.

November 26 , 2010

New Zealand’s PSA outbreak stalls Satara-Eastpack merger

The proposed merger of New Zealand kiwi growers and packers Satara and Eastpack is being reviewed due to the PSA kiwi vine disease outbreak, while fellow kiwi grower Seeka maintains its profit foreca.

November 26 , 2010

Argentine citrus-growing area betting on bigger yield

Area hopes to produce up to 30,000 metric tons to recover from drought losses, official says

November 25 , 2010

New Zealand paid 19% more produce export tariffs this year than in 2008

Tariffs placed on fresh produce exports from New Zealand in receiving markets have cost the industry some NZD $235 million (US $ 179 million), up 19% since 2008.

November 25 , 2010

Honduras, Guatemala melon exports set to start

Honduras shipments, delayed by heavy rain in May, will be 40 days late

November 25 , 2010

Ecuador’s mango exports suffering from cold

Strong winds during flowering and recent rains mixed with cold weather have cut the exports in half in the tropical country.

November 25 , 2010

New Zealand kiwi crop could be huge despite PSA

Heightened vigilance and good growing conditions could yield bumper crop despite PSA worries

November 24 , 2010

Peru grape exporter sets sights on Asian markets, executive says

Company aims to meet demand for the fruit in Chinese New Year in February, and to expand to Japan, South Korea and India, an exporter says

November 24 , 2010

U.S. grants patents for two new Chilean guava varieties

Patents were issued for the Red Pearl and South Pearl varieties of the Chilean guava.

November 24 , 2010

Australian university looks to replicate kiwi success with Chinese fruit

The University of Queensland is looking for investors to establish production of a Chinese fruit known as Yeng Mei, also called the Chinese or Red Beyberry.

November 23 , 2010