WASHINGTON, U.S. – China is once again buying Washington apples after a two-year market closure.
The Associated Press reports that U.S. agriculture officials have said China will import both Red and Golden Delicious apples from Washington beginning immediately.
Todd Fryhover, President of the Washington Apple Commission, said that Yakima and Wenatchee area fruit companies could begin shipping as early as next week, according to the Yakima Herald.
In August of 2012, the Chinese government stopped imports, citing fungus concerns. Plant inspectors and officials from both nations have negotiated over the past two years before reaching a deal.
The Herald reports that in 2012-13, China ranked No. 6 on the Washington apple export list with more than 2 million 42-lb boxes. In 2010-11, the country purchased 3 million 42-lb boxes, the 4th highest market that year, according to the commission.
The state of Washington produces nearly 90% of all U.S. apple exports. It will certainly be interesting to see what effects this has on the apple season.
