Asia's Fresh Produce Market Shifts as China Embraces High-Tech Growth

Asia's fresh produce market is undergoing significant changes, according to experts. ANZ Bank Economist Vicky Zhou briefed leaders from Australia and New Zealand on China's economic outlook at an IFPA A-NZ Breakfast Boardroom ahead of Asia Fruit Logistica.

Zhou discussed China's food security priorities, agricultural import diversification, the property downturn, and key risks facing the Chinese and global economy. She also provided an update on India's economic and agricultural trade outlook, including the implications of the AI boom and higher oil prices.

ANZ Bank Head of Australian Agribusiness Mark Bennett noted that China is shifting its growth engine from property and mass manufacturing toward high-tech sectors such as AI, semiconductors, Electric Vehicles, batteries, and solar. This shift will impact fresh produce trade dynamics, but strong demand for counter-seasonal imports is anticipated to persist.

India presents a major trade opportunity for Australia and New Zealand, driven by ongoing infrastructure upgrades that improve fresh produce logistics across the region. Horticulture New Zealand has forecast horticulture export revenue will increase 7% to $9.5 billion in the year to 30 June 2026, driven by record export volumes of kiwifruit and apples.