ANDRE JUICE(SH:605198) Da Zhong Ri Bao·2025-10-22 00:39Core Viewpoint - Yantai apples, a representative of Shandong's fruit industry with a brand value of 16.437 billion yuan, are facing challenges due to unpredictable weather conditions affecting their production and quality [2]. Weather Impact - The large-scale harvest of Yantai apples has been delayed by 10 days this year due to adverse weather, including a significant rainfall of 76.6 mm from October 9 to 12, which hindered the apples' ripening process [2][3]. - Multiple weather events, including a late spring frost, summer drought, and continuous autumn rain, have negatively impacted both the yield and quality of Yantai apples [3]. Quality and Pricing - In the relatively better-performing village of Xiaojiaokou, only 60% of the apples are classified as high-quality, with a decrease in the number of larger fruits [3]. - The price for high-quality apples has increased, with the purchase price for fully red 85 mm Fuji apples rising from 4.5 yuan per jin last year to 5 yuan this year [3]. Agricultural Practices - Different orchards have experienced varying levels of impact from the weather, with varietal improvement and scientific management being key factors in resilience [4]. - The introduction of over 30 new apple varieties since 2019 has enhanced disease resistance and adaptability to changing weather conditions [4]. - Innovative agricultural practices, such as maintaining ground cover with weeds to improve soil health and using smart irrigation systems, have contributed to better resilience against extreme weather [4]. Industry Development - The local apple deep processing industry is rapidly developing, providing a market for lower-quality apples that cannot be sold fresh [6][7]. - The demand for processed apple products, such as NFC juice and apple chips, has surged, leading to a doubling of purchase prices for lower-quality apples from 0.4-0.6 yuan per jin to 0.8-1 yuan [7]. - Yantai's annual processing capacity for fresh apples exceeds 5 million tons, with deep processing capabilities reaching 2.3 million tons, producing over 100 different products [8].