Del Monte Corporation and Riverking Group Announce Joint Venture to Expand Fresh-Cut Fruit Business in China; Mohammed Abbas and Zhang Ming Comment

HONG KONG, CHINA - Del Monte Corporation, one of the world's leading vertically integrated producers, distributors and marketers of fresh and shelf-stable produce, announced that its subsidiary, Del Monte Fresh Produce (HK) Ltd., has entered into a joint venture with Riverking (Shanghai) Agricultural Technology Development Co., Ltd., a leading integrated private fruit enterprise, to expand into the fresh-cut fruit segment in China.

The joint venture combines Del Monte's brand strength, differentiated packaging, and fresh-cut experience and technology with Riverking's local sourcing, distribution, and customer networks, positioning the partnership to establish a strong presence in China's rapidly growing fresh-cut fruit market. According to DataIntelo’s 2026 Fresh-cut Produce Market report, Asia is the fastest-growing region in the global fresh-cut produce market, with China expected to account for approximately 45% of the region's fresh-cut produce market by 2034, driven by rising consumer demand for convenient, high-quality, and safe produce options.

“This partnership with Riverking marks a significant step into China's fresh-cut fruit market, giving Del Monte a strong platform to deepen our foothold across Asia and bring consumers quality, convenient fruit options they can trust,” said Mohammed Abbas, President and COO of Del Monte Corporation, in the recent release.

The agreement was announced during Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong, where Abbas met with Mr. Zhang Ming, Founder of Riverking Group, to mark the partnership.

"We are honored to partner with Del Monte, whose name has stood for quality and trust for over 135 years. This joint venture combines Del Monte's fresh-cut expertise with Riverking's local knowledge and distribution network. Together, we are well-positioned to bring Chinese consumers premium, safe, and convenient fresh-cut fruit products. We are confident this collaboration will set a new standard in the category," said Mr. Zhang Ming, Founder and Chairman of Riverking Group.

Together, the companies aim to deliver branded, premium, high-quality, safe, and convenient fresh-cut fruit to Chinese consumers.