“刚买完又降40块”，跌落凡间的车厘子更没人要了？

Core Viewpoint - The price of cherries has significantly dropped, leading to a shift in consumer perception from viewing cherries as a luxury item to a more accessible fruit, emphasizing taste over status [1][4][26]. Price Trends - The reference price for imported Chilean cherries has decreased from 185 yuan per kilogram on November 5, 2025, to 148 yuan per kilogram by January 5, 2026, indicating a substantial price drop [4]. - Some specifications of cherries have seen price reductions exceeding 50% since mid-December 2025 [4]. - The price drop has led consumers to adopt a stock market-like mentality, buying cherries in bulk to average down costs [1][6]. Consumer Behavior - Consumers are now more cautious about purchasing cherries, often weighing the risk of price drops before buying [6]. - The perception of cherries has shifted from a symbol of wealth to a common fruit, with discussions around their health effects becoming more relatable [3][26]. Market Dynamics - Despite a decrease in cherry prices, Chile's total cherry export volume is projected to decline by 12.1% in the 2025-2026 season, down to approximately 550,000 tons [11]. - The early harvesting season due to climate change has led to an oversupply in the market, contributing to the price drop [13]. - The increase in cherry cultivation area in Chile has surged from 3,241 hectares in 2000 to 74,148 hectares in 2024, significantly impacting supply [15]. Transportation and Cost Factors - The cost of transporting cherries has decreased due to advancements in shipping technology and an increase in direct flights from Chile to China, which has contributed to lower retail prices [16][17]. - The number of direct flights for cherry transport has doubled, enhancing supply chain efficiency [16]. Cultural Shift - The once-prestigious status of cherries as a luxury item has diminished, with consumers now prioritizing quality and price over brand prestige [26]. - The trend of gifting cherries during holidays has decreased, with consumers now favoring more affordable options [24].