Cherries imported from New Zealand, Australia rise 35% to $80 per kilo ahead of Tet

As the Lunar New Year (Tet) approaches, cherry prices have surged, with imported varieties from New Zealand and Australia reaching nearly VND2 million (US$79.7) per kilogram, 35% higher than the same period last year.

Despite the sharp increase, demand remains high, especially for premium varieties from New Zealand and Australia.

At a fruit shop on Le Van Sy Street in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 3, New Zealand cherries sized 32-34 mm are priced at nearly VND2 million per kilogram, while smaller-sized cherries cost between VND900,000 and VND1 million per kilogram.

Similarly, Australian cherries, priced in the same range, have sold out since Jan. 25, just days before the holiday.

Chilean cherries, a more affordable option at VND200,000-250,000 per kilogram, are also being ordered in bulk. The owner of a shop on Quang Trung Street in Go Vap District reported that premium cherry varieties sold out several days ago, with prices up 20-35% compared to last year, depending on size and type.

“Cherries are a popular Tet gift, especially the premium lines. Many customers pre-ordered weeks in advance to ensure they have stock during Tet,” the shop owner said. The nine-day New Year break begins Saturday.

On online platforms, many shops have announced sold-out stocks, with some customers waiting 2-3 extra days for their orders due to delayed import shipments.

Hanh, a fruit trader specializing in Australian imports, shared that Jan. 26 was the last day she accepted orders for air-shipped cherries. However, demand has been so high that traders like her have had to source from more remote markets to find fresh, high-quality goods.

“The key to cherries is freshness. I’ve sourced the newest stock for my customers, but prices are higher,” Hanh said, noting that a 2-kg box of cherries sized 30-32 mm costs around VND1.5-1.6 million.

Hundreds of tons of Chilean cherries have been imported by supermarkets to meet Tet shopping demand, with consumption reaching up to 80%. Supermarkets in HCMC continue to restock as the holiday, which lasts nine days until Feb. 2, draws near.

The market currently offers cherries imported from Canada, Chile, Australia, and New Zealand in a range of sizes. Organic cherries, a limited and sought-after variety, are also available this year.

Cherry prices have risen this year due to reduced supply and increased demand. Australian cherries sold out quickly as production in the country decreased, with many farmers scaling back planting areas.

U.S. cherries, which typically compete with Australian and New Zealand varieties, have been out of season since late last year, further driving up prices.