(SOURCE: WSTFA)
Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:
Currently, there are no USA Pears remaining in importer warehouses since early February 2026. Importers have indicated that they plan to resume bringing in USA Pears in the next season. They are also hopeful that the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) will be implemented before the upcoming season, which would eliminate the 5% import duty and make USA Pears more price-competitive compared to pears from other regions. Retailers who previously partnered with us on promotional activities have expressed their satisfaction and are inquiring whether PBNW Indonesia will continue to collaborate with them on promotions in the next season.
Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:
Despite the ongoing war situation in the Middle East, there have been no significant challenges affecting sea shipment logistics for importers.
Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:
Similar to last month, importers continue to prefer bringing Red Anjou and Green Anjou, along with a smaller volume of Bosc for upcoming season. The preferred specifications are size 70–80, grade US1, with 100% quality standard.
Update on the Competition in the Market:
There is strong competition from pears originating from China. Both in importers’ warehouses and retail displays, a wide variety of Chinese pears are widely available. In addition, a small quantity of pears from South Africa can also be found in importers’ warehouses and retail store displays. Furthermore, there is a significant presence of Chinese mandarins and apples, with large-scale displays across many retail stores, adding further competition in the fresh fruit category.
Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:
Climate and atmospheric researchers at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have warned of the potential for a longer and drier-than-normal dry season from April to October 2026. This condition is attributed to the simultaneous influence of El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD+). Under these conditions, retailers are optimistic that fresh fruit sales may increase, as consumers are likely to purchase more fresh fruit for health-related reasons during prolonged dry and warm weather.
Other Brief Comments:
PBNW Indonesia continues to maintain and expand its trade activities with importers, recognizing their critical role in bringing USA Pears into the market. At the same time, strengthening collaboration with supportive retailers remains a key priority. This includes initiating early brainstorming sessions with retailers to develop effective in-store activities and social media campaigns that align with and enhance USA Pears promotional efforts for the upcoming season.