Hong Kong is a dynamic market and an effective re-export platform of fresh fruits encompassing US$2.6 billion of gross imports and US$1.6 billion of re-exports in 2017. With zero tariffs on fruits and most agricultural products, efficient customs procedures, and transparent food regulations, market access is easy and new varieties and suppliers are always present in the market. As the third largest supplier of fruits to Hong Kong by value, the United States needs to stay competitive and expand market share by offering innovative products, maintaining superiority in quality, and educating the market on how U.S. products stand out from their competitors’.
Hong Kong is ranked as the fifth-largest U.S. fresh fruits export market by value. Fruits from the United States generally enjoy a good reputation among Hong Kong consumers. Besides fruits from the United States, Hong Kong people consume a variety of fruits from around the world. Alongside changes in consumers’ lifestyle and an increase in health awareness, Hong Kong people demand new varieties and expanded options in addition to established items like apples, oranges, and bananas. Seasonality, nutritional values, and innovative aspects matter more as access to information is easier via mobile phones and social media. From over US$350 Japanese watermelons to the all-time favourite navel oranges, Hong Kong imported over 1.69 million metric tons of fresh fruits with a value over US$2.6 billion in 2017. Imports have been on the rise in the last five years.
