Dole, one of the world’s leading producers and distributors of high quality fresh fruits, remains bullish of the Chinese market.
During the 6th edition of CIIE exhibition in Shanghai recently, Dole reported orders exceeding Rmb 100 million (US$13.72 million) during the past 5 editions of the show while it also gained new partnerships with local Chinese companies.
In the fruit industry, more foreign produce has been allowed into the Chinese market during the past 5 years, thanks to the CIIE’s spillover effect, said Wang Na, Marketing Director of Dole China. Wang added that Dole has raised its profile and brand recognition in China through the expo.
Since 2018, Dole has achieved annual sales growth of 10% in the Chinese market. Dole fruit products are no longer just found in the first and second-tier cities and large supermarkets, but also in the 3rd tier cities and regional provinces.
According to Makoto Sawanoi, President of Dole Fresh Produce Group, “In the past, Chinese consumers cared more about prices but today they have high demands for high-quality, healthy fruits. That is exactly what we can provide.”
Dole ventured into the Chinese market in 1998, and since then it has introduced over 100 types of produce from countries and regions taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) into China, including Chilean cherries and Peruvian blueberries. Wang said that with the benefits of the BRI, the company can efficiently deliver high-quality fruits and vegetables from overseas regions to Chinese tables, allowing consumers in the Northern Hemisphere to enjoy fruits and vegetables from the Southern Hemisphere at any time.
