South African Apple Imports Jump 83% as Jiafeng Pop-Ups at Uncle Fruit Draw Chinese Shoppers

Summer is the peak season for South African apples and pears. To mark this, Jiafeng Agricultural Products Trading Co. Ltd. recently held a two-week promotional campaign across 50 Uncle Fruit stores in Guangzhou and Foshan, bringing a fresh fruit feast from the Southern Hemisphere to Chinese consumers.

At the Uncle Fruit store pop-up events, South Africa-themed food carts filled with fresh apples, pears and adorable plush toys attracted numerous shoppers. Store staff enthusiastically introduced the unique characteristics and nutritional benefits of South African apples and pears while inviting consumers to sample the fruit. The crisp and sweet Fuji apples and vibrant Forelle pears received rave reviews from shoppers. Interactive activities such as Xiaohongshu check-ins and lucky draws for branded merchandise further helped create a lively and engaging atmosphere.

South African apples and pears enter their peak export season every February, with supplies continuing until late autumn and early winter in the Northern Hemisphere, perfectly bridging the gap when domestic fresh apples are out of season. According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, China imported 9,297.3 metric tons of South African apples from January to May of this year, a significant increase of 83.2% compared with the 5,075.7 metric tons imported during the same period of last year. Over the same period, imports of South African pears reached 1,017.1 metric tons, up 26.6% from last year’s 803.4 metric tons.

According to a representative from Jiafeng, the company’s imported South African apples and pears began arriving in May, with retail prices slightly higher than last year. Supplies are expected to continue through October to November. With the implementation of the zero-tariff policy for African countries and the anticipated reduction in import costs, coupled with growing consumer awareness and preference for South African fruits, the company plans to further expand its import volumes and provide consumers with more diverse and convenient purchasing experiences across a wide range of channels and consumption scenarios.

Jiafeng began importing South African apples in 2018, with Fuji as its flagship variety. In 2021, after South African pears gained market access to China, Forelle pears were added to Jiafeng’s import portfolio. South African Fuji apples are known for their firm, crisp texture, balanced sweetness and acidity, and rich aroma. Their smaller size makes them particularly popular with children, attracting many families and young consumers. Forelle pears, with their bright color, attractive appearance and nearly seedless flesh, have also won over younger consumers. Jiafeng revealed that this year it will also introduce more South African apple varieties, including Royal Gala, adding more flavor options for fruit lovers.

Looking ahead, Jiafeng will continue to deepen its South African fruit import business, delivering more delicious and exciting offerings to Chinese consumers through high-quality products and engaging activities across additional channels and scenarios.

Images: Guangzhou Jiafeng Agricultural Products Trading Co. Ltd.

This article was translated from Chinese. Read the original article.