Dutch apples arrived in China before Chinese new year 2026 celebration

Dutch apples arrived in China just weeks before Chinese new year 2026 celebration, that added extra colours to the Chinese fruit market, and enriched availability of apples varieties,

The first container of Dutch apples arrived at the Port of Shanghai in early February 2026. This shipment was managed by the Dutch grower cooperative FruitMasters.

Look at this recent article from freshplaza

The first container of Dutch apples arrived at the port of Shanghai last week. These were Tessa apples from the grower cooperative FruitMasters.

The arrival marks a special moment: for the first time, Dutch apples have been granted commercial access to the Chinese market. The import became possible after China approved the export protocol for Dutch apples in May 2025.

The container was ceremonially opened upon arrival, a customary act that underlines the importance of new trade flows. For the Dutch fruit sector, access to China offers strong potential, as the country has a rapidly growing market for high-quality fresh fruit.

Demand for healthy, safe, and traceable products aligns well with the strong image of the Dutch agricultural sector......See more from freshplaza here

Here’s the real process:...

In May 2025, the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) officially granted market access for Dutch apples, provided they meet strict phytosanitary requirements.

The agreement requires a rigorous quality management system, including registered orchards and packaging facilities that must be approved by the GACC annually.

Here's what's interesting,

Dutch exporters are targeting the Chinese market with specific varieties aimed at local tastes:

Tessa: The first variety successfully shipped to China; it is marketed for its sweet taste and firm texture.

Other Potential Varieties: Varieties such as Elstar and Red Jonaprince are also being promoted, though some experts suggest traditional varieties like Elstar might need specialized marketing to match Chinese flavour preferences.

The introduction of apples builds on the success of Dutch Conference pears, which have had market access in China for over ten years.

Apple cultivation in the Netherlands has decreased from 15,000 hectares to approximately 5,220 hectares over the last 26 years, as many farmers have switched to more profitable pear production.

 Exporting to China requires meeting some of the highest international standards, including specific sampling and inspection rates (initially 2% of the cargo) to ensure the absence of quarantine pests like the codling moth.