Yunnan's Dongkui waxberries hit the market in mid-May, and currently, most available waxberries are Yunnan-grown Biqi and Dongkui varieties. Fujian Dongkui waxberries are expected to launch by late May.
Early-season waxberries from Yunnan showed similar growth and yield trends to past years. However, recent persistent rainfall has impacted fruit quality, making post-harvest drying more critical. Insufficient drying time increases the risk of mold, and due to weather conditions, the picking window may be slightly shorter than usual, with the season likely ending around June 10. Mrs. Zhou from Shenzhen Yizhiyi Agriculture, a key player in the waxberry trade, noted that waxberries remain one of the company's core products.
"Zhejiang's waxberries will arrive in June. Based on current weather and fruit development, this year's production is projected to match last year's levels, with consistent quality and flavor."
Zhou observed strong market interest, with Yunnan Dongkui waxberries selling out quickly upon launch. "Farmgate prices are stable year-on-year, but market prices are falling faster than in previous seasons. For instance, this year's initial channel pricing for Dongkui waxberries was close to last year's post-discount levels," she explained. "Demand ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival has surged, and Yunnan waxberries are now at peak flavor."
Wusu waxberries
This season may see more diverse waxberry varieties, as suppliers experiment with niche cultivars to attract buyers. "One of our clients is scaling up white waxberry sales for the second year, a low-yield, high-sugar variety with pale skin," Zhou shared.
Yizhiyi is expanding its portfolio with Guangdong's Wusu waxberries, available from early to mid-June. Known for their reddish blush, tender flesh, and edible pit, these premium waxberries command higher prices due to limited supply and exceptional taste. They will be packed in 170g fresh boxes and initially distributed in Guangdong, Beijing, Shanghai, and other key markets.
While waxberries and mulberries are Yizhiyi's flagship products, the company also supplies strawberries, citrus, and melons, primarily to supermarkets and tea shops.