JD(US:JD) Zhong Jin Zai Xian·2025-11-25 03:30Core Insights - The first shipment of Chilean cherries for the 2025-2026 season has set sail to China, marking the beginning of a new consumption wave for cherries in the country [1] - JD.com will launch a pre-sale for sea-freighted cherries on December 8, with prices starting as low as 16.9 yuan per pound, offering high value to Chinese consumers [1] Group 1: Supply Chain and Quality Control - JD.com has implemented strict grading standards to address long-standing issues of mixed specifications in the industry, prohibiting the sale of smaller cherries mixed with larger ones to meet consumer quality expectations [3] - Prior to the season, JD.com conducted on-site inspections in Chile's core cherry production area, Curicó, to ensure quality control and established direct sourcing partnerships with local premium orchards [3][5] - The direct sourcing model significantly reduces intermediary steps, enhancing efficiency and ensuring product freshness, with cherries being sold through various JD.com channels, including JD Fresh and discount supermarkets [3][5] Group 2: Market Demand and Trends - The main cherry production area in Chile is located in the central valley, characterized by a Mediterranean climate that is conducive to sugar accumulation in cherries [7] - The Chilean Fruit Exporters Association estimates that the export volume of cherries for the 2025-2026 season will remain stable compared to the previous year, with over 90% expected to be shipped to China [7] - Industry experts note that the trend of "democratizing" cherry prices is likely to continue, as cherries transition from being high-end gifts to everyday family fruits, emphasizing the need for standardized grading, packaging, and cold chain standards to enhance consumer trust [10]