Everything is set for open trade with China in September, although Vice-President Przemyslaw Bladek, said that certifications need to first be in place for growers, packhouses and cold stores.
While some countries have been working at opening up trade with China for the last 7 to 8 years, Bladek said it was an accomplishment that Poland was able to work it out in 4 years. He thinks that this is because there are clear benefits for each party, such as building roads and meat exports, along with fruit and vegetables.
"We are very excited about the new contact with the major Chinese companies because we have discovered that they are not only interested in the single colour premium apples like other Asian countries such as Vietnam, but they are also interested in apples with colouration of 30 to 40%."
Although there are also cheaper apples on the market, Polish apples offer Chinese consumers something different than what they are used to.
"Our apples provide consumers with something new, they look and taste completely different and we think that this will give us an advantage in the market."
Appolonia has been present at all of the recent trade shows in China to become acquainted with the industry. A group of visitors from China are expected to come to Poland so they can learn more about the apples and experience the quality control measures for themselves.
