Taiwan celebrates Lunar New Year with Tasmanian cherries

Fruit Growers Tasmania | Monday, 6 January 2025, 10.05am

The first official launch of the Tasmanian cherry season in Taiwan will take place on 8 January in Taipei.

Importers and buyers of Tasmanian cherries will attend the official season launch to mark the countdown to Lunar New Year celebrations. During this period Taiwan people celebrate with family and friends and give gifts for good fortune. Large red cherries are a favoured gift as they symbolize happiness, prosperity and are considered an auspicious gesture that strengthens family ties.

The launch event will bring together key representatives from the Tasmanian cherry industry, Fruit Growers Tasmania, Cherry Growers Australia, and Austrade - all working together to expand the presence of Australian fruit in the Taiwanese market.

Peter Cornish, CEO of Fruit Growers Tasmania and Chair of Cherry Growers Australia, will deliver a presentation at the event.

Peter Cornish said, “I am delighted to be part of this important event. This is the first time Tasmania has featured at a national cherry season promotional event for importers and buyers. Tasmania grows the best cherries in the world and Taiwan is a really important market for us with 22 percent of the State’s cherry exports destined for Taiwan customers.

“Due to Tasmania’s relative pest free area status growers are not required to treat the fruit before it is exported. This means the cherries arrive ripe, fresh, and ready to eat within 48-72 hours of picking. There are not many regions that can say that!

“Plus, we grow exceptional cherries in Tasmania – our cool maritime climate and long slow growing seasons means our fruit acquires an unrivalled depth of flavour.”

The event will also feature an address by the Premier of Tasmania, Jeremy Rockliff and a discussion between local importers and Tasmanian cherry growers about future growth in the market. In addition, official guests will be treated to a taste of the first Tasmanian cherries of the season.

“Our growers appreciate the ongoing support they receive from their importers and the retailers in Taiwan and this event is in part to thank them for all their efforts,” said Peter.

“A massive thanks also to our growers, who remain committed to advancing Tasmania’s cherry exports and enhancing the prominence of Australian fruit in global markets.”

As part of the event the Tasmanian Grown cherry video will be screened showcasing the high quality of Tasmanian cherries, focusing on their large size, distinctive flavour, and vibrant colour, the attributes Tasmanian cherries are known for around the world.

The Taiwan cherry season launch is made possible thanks to the ongoing efforts of Austrade, Cherry Growers Australia, Fruit Growers Tasmania, and Hort Innovation.