The 2025 global cherry season is characterised by varying production levels, quality outcomes, and market conditions across key producing and exporting countries. Below is an overview of the main developments by country. In the United Kingdom, the cherry season began earlier than usual due to favourable weather and new varieties entering production. Total output is estimated at 7,850 tons, with strong quality and a shortened picking window.
Italy reports one of its best cherry seasons ever in the north, with high prices and large fruit sizes. Despite weather-related losses in the south, overall revenue has held up due to strong demand and quality. In Spain, the cherry season began later than usual due to cool, wet weather, with storms and hail causing significant losses and sustaining high prices amid reduced Mediterranean supply. In Germany, domestic cherries have gained market share amid rising import prices, especially for Greek, Turkish, and Italian fruit. Harvest conditions in major German growing regions have been stable, with improved quality and aroma.
France's cherry production rebounded to 80% of orchard potential, up 5% from 2024 and 12% above the five-year average. Favourable weather and consistent supply have supported strong sales momentum. Austria continues to rely on imports from Turkey, Spain, and Italy, while Styrian growers face ongoing climate-related challenges. Protective cultivation methods are increasingly used to ensure quality.
In the Netherlands, the cherry harvest is excellent, with strong demand and limited import competition. Prices remain firm. In Greece, a forecasted production increase has been offset by losses exceeding 70% due to adverse weather. Retail prices have surged by more than 400% as supply remains scarce.
Switzerland expects a strong cherry harvest of 2,500 tons, supported by timely rainfall after a sunny period. High volumes and good quality are expected through the end of July. North America has seen an increase in cherry volume, with strong output from California and the Pacific Northwest. However, trade tariffs have limited exports, and retail prices are under pressure. In South Africa, cherry production rose by 9% to 3,086 tons, with acreage expansion and increased exports to the UK. Northern regions now produce one-third of the crop, supported by low-chill varieties and favourable dormancy conditions. In Chile, strong export growth has come at the cost of falling returns and rising quality concerns.
Argentina reported stable export volumes this season, with emphasis on origin-certified cherries from Patagonia. China began receiving U.S. cherries in early June at prices 15–20% lower than last year. Despite limited arrivals, high prices, and weak demand, this has led to slow sales. Turkey has suffered severe frost damage, with 70–80% of its cherry crop affected and significantly lower exportable volumes. With local demand still strong, exporters are waiting for better price offers.
United Kingdom: Cherry season sees early start and strong quality
Production in the UK began at the end of May or early June this year, driven by favourable weather conditions and new varieties and orchards entering commercial production. These include the Prim series from Stoppel, as well as varieties like Folfer, alongside the traditional early UK variety, Merchant.
The warm weather has resulted in high-quality cherries and good yields across the country. However, the season is expected to be more condensed, with typical orchards experiencing a picking window of 4 to 5 weeks, compared to the usual 6 weeks.
Due to the geographic spread of farms, UK cherry production should run from the beginning of June through mid-September, just over 100 days. Total production is estimated at around 7,850 tons, with approximately 20% of that volume sold directly at the roadside or farm gate. About 10% is exported or sold through non-retail/supermarket channels, while the remaining volume is supplied to UK supermarkets.
Approximately 60% of the cherry crop is now located in the South East of England, 30% in the West Midlands, and 10% in Scotland. This marks a significant shift from 15 years ago, when 80% of production was concentrated in the South East.
The primary sources of cherries for the UK market are Spain and domestic production, while Central and Eastern European countries are sourcing large volumes from Greece and Turkey. Spain's crop started later than usual due to cooler weather, resulting in a condensed season in the main Aragon region. Fruit from the central Valle de Jerte region is expected to continue until early to mid-July.
As a result, retail prices in the UK have remained similar to those of previous years, due to established purchasing practices. In contrast, mainland Europe has experienced price increases throughout the season, driven by supply and demand dynamics.
Italy: High-quality cherry season amid limited supply
Cherry harvesting is progressing satisfactorily in northern Italy, particularly in Emilia-Romagna. "Prices have remained consistently strong, as the market has lacked cherries from southern Italy as well as from Spain or Turkey," says a cherry grower from Emilia-Romagna. Fruit sizes are good, with a high percentage measuring 28 mm and above. Many producers in the region consider this cherry season the best ever. Prices paid to farmers range between €6 and €12 per kilogram, depending on timing, fruit quality, and size.
An operator in the organic sector adds that organic cherry prices are high, following the trend seen in conventional produce. Cherries are in short supply, demand remains strong, and prices are rising. For organic cherries, the most common format is the 300-gram punnet, which meets consumer expectations while keeping checkout prices relatively affordable.
A grower from Apulia states: "The cherry season is coming to an end, with the last volumes expected to be marketed by week 26. Despite a 50% drop in volumes due to adverse weather conditions, revenue has remained stable thanks to the high quality of the fruit. A recent price decline of 15–20% has been observed, not due to quality issues, but because of increased availability of other summer fruits. The market has consistently supported cherry prices, and the quality of Italian cherries has remained superior to foreign competition. Maximum prices paid to farmers reached €8–9/kg, while current prices are around €4–4.50/kg."
After three difficult seasons, 2025 marks a recovery for cherries from the Bracigliano area. "Finally, a favorable season," emphasizes a grower from Campania, "with abundant production and satisfactory prices for producers. Ideal weather conditions, with no frosts and well-distributed rainfall, allowed for large-sized fruit with excellent sweetness." Analyses of samples from the Spernocchia variety revealed Brix levels above 25, indicating extremely high organoleptic quality.
According to YouGov data, 35% of Italian households purchase cherries. The data refers to the 12 months ending April 2025 and shows an increase in cherry-buying households after a decline the previous year. Cherries are known to be an expensive fruit, yet fewer and fewer families are willing to give them up. Supermarkets remain the main purchasing channel, with hypermarkets and discount retailers seeing significant growth.
Spain: Delayed start and reduced volumes keep prices high
The Spanish cherry season is progressing with higher average prices than in previous seasons due to reduced supply both domestically and from other Mediterranean-producing countries. The harvest in Spain began later than last year due to milder and wetter weather in the main production areas. Since the start of the season, a series of storms—often accompanied by hail in Lleida and Aragon, and to a lesser extent in Jerte—have caused significant production losses and a rise in second-grade cherry output. Some growing regions have scarcely been able to deliver fruit to market.
In addition, the substantial drop in Turkish production caused by frost has kept demand strong in Central and Eastern European countries, particularly in Germany. This effect has been compounded by reduced cherry volumes from Italy and other producing nations. Typically, prices decline from mid-June onwards due to increased market supply, but this year they have remained elevated. Since mid-June, extremely high temperatures, more typical of July or August, are raising concerns among producers about quality degradation, which could result in further losses.
This season, the export protocol for Spanish cherries to China was approved just before the campaign began. Some trial shipments of later-maturing varieties are expected. Cherry production in Spain has continued to increase in recent years, and access to new markets and value-added niches is viewed as a positive development. However, the export protocol includes strict cold treatment requirements, which have made the sector approach the process cautiously.
Germany: Domestic cherries gain ground as import prices rise
Spanish fruit predominated, but domestic products became noticeably more relevant. Turkish and Italian products played a more complementary role. Supplies from Belgium, France, and Greece were only available in very small quantities. Except for Belgian batches, prices were slightly to significantly above the level of the same period last year. Greek, Turkish, and Italian sweet cherries in particular experienced substantial price increases compared to the previous year.
The German cherry harvest was already underway by the end of May in the early regions. Efforts are being made to extend the season until mid-July with late varieties such as Final 12.1. In major growing areas such as the Lake Constance district, the Altes Land, and Rheinhessen, the harvest has been good so far. "Stable harvest quantities, significantly improved qualities, and a full-bodied aroma characterize this year's harvest," reported Obst vom Bodensee in week 25. Interim results from the Altes Land are also consistently positive: the first Kordia will be available from week 27, followed closely by Regiona in week 28. Overall, Elbe-Obst is ten days ahead of the long-term average. Additionally, covered cherry cultivation continues to gain importance across all growing regions.
France: Cherry production rebounds after several weak seasons
The French harvest began one week later than last year. After several very poor years, the 2025 harvest is estimated at 80% of the potential of French orchards. This satisfactory level marks a clear improvement compared to recent years, although it still falls short of the historic highs of some seasons.
According to the latest estimates published by the French Ministry of Agriculture, national cherry production for 2025 is expected to reach just over 33,000 tons, an increase of 5% compared to 2024 and 12% higher than the average harvest recorded between 2020 and 2024. The current campaign is therefore part of a recovery cycle following a pronounced low in 2021.
Continued favourable weather conditions toward the end of the harvest will be crucial to confirming this positive production level. For now, the campaign is benefiting from favourable climatic conditions, with stable summer weather supporting consumption.
This meteorological context is driving strong sales momentum, with all distribution channels being supplied smoothly and consistently. The sector hopes to continue offering French cherries through the end of July.
Austria: Imports lead as Styrian cherry growers face climate strain
Shipments from Turkey, Spain, and Italy dominated the market. Wholesale prices have recently ranged between €9 and €12 per kilogram. Due to frost damage, there will be very little produce from neighbouring Hungary this year, especially in the early segment.
Domestic fruit is also already being harvested: in Styria in particular, cherry cultivation has become more complex due to increasingly frequent late winter conditions and late frost events in recent years. Added to this are the more frequent heavy rainfall events during the ripening phase. To produce high-quality fruit, the use of frost protection measures, hail nets, and foil roofs to protect the harvest has increased.
Thanks to the diversity of varieties, the harvest extends over several weeks, from early June until around mid-July. The most commonly grown cherry varieties in Styria are 'Kordia' and 'Regina', which ripen at the end of June and the beginning of July, respectively.
Netherlands: High-quality Dutch cherries meet strong market demand
"This year's cherry harvest is outstanding," says a Dutch cherry grower. "Thanks to a bountiful yield, the cherries are slightly smaller than last year. The flavour is excellent, with a noticeable sweetness due to ample sunshine."
The grower also reports strong market demand. Imported cherries are scarce, as frost damage in Greece and Turkey has significantly reduced their harvests, resulting in rapid demand for Dutch cherries. Pallets arriving from the orchard are sent directly to the sorting line and shipped to customers the same day. Prices remain strong, with high-quality cherries fetching between €6 and €7 per kilogram on the market.
Greece: Weather cuts cherry yield despite growth forecast
In Greece, 2025 marks a challenging year for cherry growers due to adverse weather conditions, which have affected both yields and market prices. The reduced cherry harvest, significantly impacted by weather-related issues, has led to price increases at retail outlets such as grocery stores, farmers' markets, and supermarkets, with reported hikes of over 400%.
Despite a forecasted 34% increase in total cherry production compared to 2024, this season is expected to see losses exceeding 70%. Additional issues, such as fruit splitting caused by fluctuating weather, have further contributed to market scarcity.
Switzerland: Cherry harvest expected to be strong in volume and quality
The Swiss Fruit Association (SOV) is expecting a very good cherry harvest of 2,500 tons, with the main harvest set to begin from mid-June onwards. After weeks of sunshine, rainfall arrived at the perfect time, having an optimal effect on cherry growth. Consumers can look forward to high volumes and good quality.
Thanks to the use of different varieties with staggered ripening times, Swiss cherries will be available until the end of July.
North America: Cherry supply grows amid trade and pricing challenges
Cherry volume in North America is up compared to last year. One grower-shipper reported that by June 19, it had shipped 3,683,003 boxes of 20 lb. equivalents, up from 2,789,019 boxes at the same time in the previous year. The season started strongly, with volumes ramping up quickly. All growing regions in the Northwest have now started or will begin shortly. Meanwhile, California finished its season on June 15 with a total of approximately 4.8 million boxes of 18 lb. equivalents.
Demand is increasing, particularly as consumers become aware that the Northwest cherry season has begun. Promotions and advertisements are supporting demand and encouraging repeat purchases.
Retail pricing is declining as promotional activity around Northwest cherries increases. With high global cherry availability, volume is not expected to slow down, and fruit from the Pacific Northwest is expected to remain available until late August.
A key challenge this season is the uncertainty surrounding trade tariffs, given the high export share of North American cherries. Although California and Washington have good crops, trade barriers have significantly reduced export opportunities.
In Canada, after severe frosts last year, the 2025 season is showing signs of recovery with a decent crop. The early harvest appears heavy, but fruit sizes are small. Additional thinning is expected to yield larger fruit in later varieties. Canada may also have the opportunity to supply markets traditionally served by U.S. exports.
South Africa: Cherry production and exports show continued growth
Initial figures indicate that during the past season, South Africa produced 3,086 tons of cherries—an increase of 9% year-on-year. Of this total, 1,880 tons were sold through local retail and wholesale channels, around 50 tons went to processing, and 1,154 tons, equivalent to 149,218 cartons of 5 kg each, were exported.
Cherry acreage has expanded significantly, from 185 hectares in 2012 to 819 hectares by 2024. The introduction of low-chill cherry varieties has transformed the industry in South Africa, allowing orchards to be established in regions that traditionally could not support cherry production. Although the majority of the cherry crop is still grown in the Western Cape, an excellent marketing window exists for northern growers in September and October, before the Cape harvest begins. Currently, one-third of South Africa's cherries are produced in the northern regions of the country.
Cherry farmers in both the Cape and the north report improved accumulation of cold units compared to the same period last year. Additional cold fronts are expected, much to the relief of growers, as these conditions plunge orchards into complete dormancy and help ensure a strong, well-sized crop for the next season.
During the 2024/2025 season, the share of South African cherries exported to the United Kingdom—its largest market—increased to 60%, up from 55% the previous season. Meanwhile, exports to the Middle East declined from 17% to 12%. Europe received 18% of the cherry crop during the 2024/2025 campaign.
The past season also saw the first shipments of South African cherries to North America, in volumes roughly equal to those sent to the Indian Ocean islands.
Chile: Export growth pressures prices and exposes logistical vulnerabilities
Chile recorded a 50% increase in cherry exports this season. However, this rise in volume led to a drop in prices: the FOB value per box declined from approximately USD 30 to less than USD 20, representing a 33% decrease (from around €28 to €18). The strong concentration of shipments to China—accounting for 90% of the total—left the sector vulnerable to logistical challenges, such as vessel delays, which negatively affected fruit quality.
Climatic conditions, including heat stress and water scarcity, have also contributed to a higher proportion of defective cherries, reducing the availability of export-grade fruit. In response, the sector is considering adjustments such as modifying the harvest schedule, adopting firmer varieties, and introducing new packaging formats to align with market demands. Efforts are also underway to gradually diversify exports to additional markets, including the United States and Europe.
Argentina: Quality-driven exports from Patagonia
Argentina exported over 6,000 tons of cherries this season, with shipments centered in the country's southern production regions. In the Valle de Los Antiguos, located in Patagonia, cherries received a Designation of Origin, officially recognizing their link to the production area. In favorable seasons, the region has exported up to 1,200 tons, although adverse weather has reduced volumes in some years. The agro-climatic conditions of southern Argentina—low humidity, cold temperatures, and abundant sunlight- enable the production of high-quality fruit. While the sector is limited by scale and logistics, it holds strong expectations in export markets that value origin-specific attributes.
China: Lower U.S. cherry prices met with weak demand
U.S. cherries arrived on the Chinese market at the beginning of June. Currently, the 9.5R size is priced at approximately €59.00 per 5 kg box, roughly 15%–20% lower than last year. However, prices remain relatively high, and consumer demand is weak, resulting in slow sales. At this stage, arrivals are limited.
The main cherry varieties from the U.S. are Black Pearl, Santina, and Coral. Some of the arriving batches have slightly lower sweetness levels.
Turkey: Severe crop damage limits cherry exports
Looking at the current situation in Turkey, it is clear that there are simply not enough cherries being produced this season. Based on total production volumes, between 70% and 80% of Turkish cherries have been damaged. Naturally, as a result of this damage, exportable volumes will be lower this season.
The regions that do have cherries available will demand very high prices. As a result, exporters will likely wait until the right price is offered, since the shortage will be felt across multiple markets. The Turkish government has not intervened, as local markets remain strong and are purchasing the limited quantities available.
This cherry season is expected to pass in a quiet and subdued manner. It is a disappointing outcome for all those who had high hopes for the current season.
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