North American fruit growers are producing more fruit in 2017, but that doesn't necessarily match the demand, leading to a buildup of stocks and, for some products, lower prices.
Canadian Apple production is up 14%. A large supply of apples still remains in storage as a result, with reports indicating supplies are 49% higher than last year's level. Retail apples are down 13% in the first quarter of 2017. Apple prices should remain below 2016 levels.
Cranberries prices remain low, with rising production compensating for low prices and boosting farm cash receipts. Final 2016 data for Cranberries is currently unavailable, but estimates indicate cranberry receipts will approach an all-time record high of $120-million-Canadian.
The Canadian Grape industry had a solid year in 2016, with production up 22% compared to 2015, led by continued growth in grapes for wine production. Canadian prices for grapes increased nearly 3% in 2015 as strong prices for wine grapes were offset by lower prices for fresh grapes. Prices remain strong, with demand for wine grapes expected to continue growing in 2017.
