IPG NEWS
IPG looks to keep its customers, suppliers, and partners world-wide, all connected and in touch through its new IPG News Reports. This news source will highlight the most significant, relevant and day-day international trade and produce news stories.
We feel it’s very important to not only have a great understanding for our current market and country, but to maintain a worldly viewpoint and full understanding of all other markets and their effects on the fresh produce export/import industry. Please stay connected and informed through our news channel.
Overview Global Berry Market
August 23, 2019
The demand for raspberries and blackberries has risen sharply in Europe and North America in recent years. In the West, raspberries are seen as a luxury product. In China, that is not the case, and the prices, although still higher than those of other berries, are low. There is hardly any demand for raspberries in China, with goji berries being especially popular among consumers. The current stock of raspberries, blackberries and berries on the market is declining. The supply from…
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US Apple Exports, Value Down for 2018 Crop
August 23, 2019
Apple exports for the 2018 crop were down 27 percent from the previous year, said the U.S. Apple Association at the organization’s annual Crop and Outlook Marketing Conference. The value of apple exports fell by 22 percent, from $1.1 billion in 2017 to $854 million for the 2018 crop. Amid growing trade tensions and escalating tariffs from top export countries, the overall farm gate income for U.S. apple growers fell 16 percent, or $588 million, from 2017 to 2018. The…
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Growers Preparing for Washington Potato Harvest
August 20, 2019
In less than two weeks, the Washington potato harvest will commence. Growers have noted the ideal weather conditions that have accompanied the growing period leading up to harvest, with yield and quality both expected to be on par with the long term average. "We are due to start harvesting on August 26," said Jack Wallace of G&D Wallace. "Growing conditions have been near perfect, with welcome rains spaced out intermittently. Volume should be about average in the Skagit Valley, while…
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Produce Industry Sees Sustainability as Future of Packaging
August 20, 2019
Produce suppliers are taking hard looks at packaging in terms of costs, materials and environmental concerns. “It’s pretty obvious that everybody is on a track to reduce plastic and increase recyclability,” said Andy Tudor, vice president of business development with Selah, Wash.-based Rainier Fruit Co. “Probably, the ultimate goal is packaging that’s backyard compostable. It’s a process and coming in steps, but we’re working very hard, doing a lot of research, on how we can get there.” “Recycle” and “reuse”…
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Consumer Interest in Medjool Dates Increasing
August 20, 2019
In September, date growers in Coachella are expected to begin the fresh harvest. During the late spring and early summer, wind storms passed through the region, but growers have not reported any problems stemming from them. The crop will, however, be delayed because of the earlier weather issues back in May. Overall, reports indicate the crop is looking good, with some anticipating an increase in volume this year. "The Coachella Medjool harvest typically starts the first week in September, but…
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