USDA notes lower global apple and pear output but grapes steady
Lower global output for apples and pears and about steady volume for grapes was noted in an update published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The USDA said world apple production for 2020-21 is projected down 3.6 million tons to 75.9 million metric tons, mostly tied to lower 2020 production in China.
World apple trade is also forecast down on lower exportable supplies in the European Union and the U.S., according to the report.
2020 U.S. apple production is projected down more than 360,000 metric tons to 4.5 million metric tons as lower yields, wildfires, and a windstorm reduced output in Washington, and a severe freeze reduced output in Michigan.
U.S. apple exports in 2020-21 are expected to fall more than 100,000 tons to 750,000 as lower supplies reduce shipments to most export markets. U.S. apple imports are anticipated to make a slight recovery from last year’s record low, according to the report.
Grapes
World table grape production for 2020-21 is expected to remain almost unchanged at 24.7 million metric tons, as gains in China are nearly offset by weather‐related losses in the European Union, Chile, and Turkey.
The report said China’s grape production is estimated to rise 400,000 metric tons to 11 million metric tons on improved crop management practices.
U.S. 2020 grape production is projected down 34,000 metric tons to 871,000 metric tons on reduced bearing acreage and unfavorable growing conditions, according to the report.
Final trade data shows U.S. grapes exports for 2020-21 fell 11,000 tons to 314,000 metric tons, their lowest level since 2009-10, reflecting reduced output and subsequent lower shipments to most top markets.
Imports remained nearly unchanged at 670,000 tons as gains in shipments from Peru were offset by weather‐reduced volumes from Chile and lower output in Mexico following last year’s record crop, according to the report.
Pears
World pear production for 2020-21 is expected to decline 1.2 million metric tons to 22.1 million metric tons, mainly on weather‐related losses in China.
U.S. production is expected to contract 37,000 metric tons to 608,000 metric tons on lower bearing acreage and yield.
U.S. pear exports are expected lower to 110,000 metric tons on reduced supplies and slumping demand in Mexico, according to the report. U.S. pear imports are also projected down to 71,000 metric tons on reduced volumes in key suppliers.
