调研报告 | 苹果：西部产区历史性的坐果减产

Core Viewpoint - The western apple-producing regions are facing the most severe drought in nearly a decade, compounded by extreme weather conditions including high temperatures and strong winds, which have significantly impacted pollination and fruit set rates [1][42]. Group 1: Drought and Weather Impact - The western regions have experienced a rare combination of "heat, drought, and wind," leading to poor pollination and fertilization of apple blossoms, which are primarily dependent on insect pollinators [1][20]. - From April 10 to 14, the regions faced high temperatures and strong winds, which coincided with the peak flowering period, resulting in a low fruit set rate due to adverse weather conditions [1][26]. - The drought conditions have led to insufficient tree nutrition, further exacerbating the low fruit set rates observed this season [1][22]. Group 2: Production Survey Findings - A survey conducted over six days across 246 orchards revealed significant production declines: approximately 50% in Shaanxi, 50% in Shanxi, and 30-40% in Gansu due to the adverse weather during the flowering period [2][43]. - The survey indicated that the expected production levels have deteriorated rapidly, with initial optimistic forecasts being revised downwards within a week [2][29]. - The current situation is unique as it represents a significant reduction in fruit set during a critical period, contrasting with previous years where frost damage was often recoverable [2][44]. Group 3: Current Market Conditions - Current spot prices for apples are at their highest levels in six years, driven by low inventory levels and a mismatch between market expectations and reality [3][38]. - The inventory structure is notably different from previous years, with fewer large holders, indicating that the supply is tight as the new season approaches [3][44]. - The price for new season apples is expected to remain strong, with a low likelihood of falling below 4 yuan per jin, potentially reaching historical highs due to the anticipated production shortfall [3][39]. Group 4: Future Price Expectations - Historical data shows that years with production declines often lead to higher opening prices for the new season's apples, with the current year expected to follow this trend due to significant reductions in expected yield [4][45]. - The analysis suggests that the new season's average opening price could challenge historical highs, particularly given the current strong spot market performance and the expected quality issues in the upcoming harvest [4][45].