Prunes Market Report 21.11.24

Prunes this season appears to be progressing more rapidly than in previous years, driven by a larger available supply from the 2023 season and robust demand from China.

Chile has increased its proportion of unpitted prune exports by 3% compared to pitted prunes as of week 34. The trend of rising unpitted prune exports has been evident since the 2022 season. However, as the 2023 season advances, the difference in proportions between the two categories has become less pronounced.

China, Poland, and Mexico have been the top destinations for pitted prunes through week 34 of 2024, with export volumes increasing by 54%, 75%, and 19%, respectively. Together, these three markets account for an additional 3,749 tons compared to 2023. Germany and the United States currently hold the fourth and fifth positions. Germany has experienced the most significant decline in pitted prune export volumes compared to 2023, with a 46% reduction year-to-date. This trend will be closely monitored as the season progresses. Meanwhile, exports to China have continued to grow in 2024, surpassing levels seen in both 2023 and 2022. By the end of the third quarter, shipments to China increased by 71%, contributing over 5,000 additional tons year-to-date.

In unpitted prunes, the largest drop in export volume has been to Brazil, with declines of 89% compared to 2022 and 59% relative to 2023. Looking ahead to the 2025 season, initial indicators suggest it will be a typical season based on winter and spring climate conditions, though much remains uncertain until the harvest begins.

via Superfruit