Apple production in Washington state this year was the second best its ever been. Things are looking to only go up as well, with trade to Asian markets returning to normal again after uncertainty.
"In 2014, our state had its best apple crop in history, but prospects to deliver cases of apples across the ocean were dampened by a labor dispute at West Coast seaports. That dispute led to a prolonged slowdown (and eventual shutdown) in loading ships carrying thousands of agriculture and manufactured products."
"One of the most heavily impacted industries was agriculture, particularly fresh product exports. Shipping containers of just picked apples destined for Asian markets sat on the docks allowing the fruit to spoil. Our state’s growers lost $95 million in overseas sales. Foreign buyers, while preferring the quality of Washington apples, looked elsewhere to fill the void." Don C. Brunell, a business analyst said.
"The best news came earlier this year - the Washington State Tree Fruit Association (WSTFA) was among 112 organizations inking in a contract with the Pacific Maritime Association and the Longshore and Warehouse Union. The contact goes through to 2019, so shipments of sensitive fresh fruits and vegetables should reach their markets on time and in good condition this year." he said.
Brunell sees many possible opportunies to grow exports of apples as demand remains high, he explains:
"While Mexico and Canada, which make up nearly one-half of our apple purchases, are our largest markets, the Washington Apple Commission looks at China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand as the best opportunities for export growth."
