美国食品行业近期正积极寻求豁免于新一轮高额关税的措施。多个行业协会表示，由于大量农产品无法在美国国内以合理成本种植，食品领域极易受到关税 政策冲击。目前，美国实际关税水平已达到数十年来的高点，贸易格局面临重塑。 美国渔业协会指出，水产品与其他食品存在本质差异，全美百分之八十五的水产品消费依赖进口。该协会首席战略官加文·吉本斯表示，美国水域已达到最 大可持续捕捞量，国内水产养殖规模难以扩大，因此强烈希望所有水产品获得关税豁免。数据显示，二零二二年美国水产品贸易逆差高达两百四十亿美元， 其中虾类进口占比约百分之九十，仅印度就供应超过三分之一。自八月二十七日起，印度输美商品将面临百分之五十的关税税率，行业压力进一步加剧。 生鲜农产品同样面临挑战。国际生鲜农产品协会数据显示，美国新鲜果蔬年进口总额达到三百六十亿美元，墨西哥、秘鲁和加拿大是主要供应国。该协会副 总裁瑞贝卡·阿德科克呼吁，将水果和蔬菜完全排除在关税讨论范围之外。 】 | 图 3 Amazon I 127 4 a 2 y a 2 e r Anton 15 15 t 中 4 此外，根据《美墨加协定》，美国、墨西哥和加拿大之间的食品贸易关税水平较低。美国已提议 ...

Core Viewpoint - Multiple U.S. food industry groups are seeking exemptions from high tariffs imposed by President Trump, citing the vulnerability of the food sector to these tariffs due to reliance on imports for various agricultural products [1][2] Group 1: Tariff Impact on Food Industry - The U.S. food industry is particularly affected by Trump's tariffs, as many agricultural products are difficult to grow domestically at affordable costs [1] - Approximately 20% of food consumed in the U.S. is imported, with 85% of seafood consumption relying on imports [1] - The U.S. seafood trade deficit reached $24 billion in 2022, highlighting the significant reliance on foreign sources [1] Group 2: Specific Product Concerns - Shrimp imports account for about 90% of the U.S. supply, with India providing over one-third of this supply [2] - The annual import value of fresh fruits and vegetables in the U.S. is $36 billion, with Mexico being the largest supplier [2] Group 3: Exemption Process and Challenges - The process for obtaining tariff exemptions in the food sector may be complex due to the lack of a defined application procedure [3] - Some food products may be exempt from tariffs based on existing trade agreements, such as those with Indonesia and the EU [3] - The U.S. has proposed exemptions for certain natural resources not produced domestically, including coffee and tropical fruits [3] Group 4: Price Implications - Without additional tariff exemptions, food prices in the U.S. could rise significantly, particularly for seasonal fresh ingredients [4] - The National Restaurant Association has warned that tariffs on seasonal produce could lead to substantial menu price increases [4] Group 5: Domestic Production Challenges - The import share of cucumbers in the U.S. has increased from 35% in 1990 to nearly 90%, indicating a shift towards reliance on imports [5] - Growing 90% of cucumbers domestically would require extensive greenhouse cultivation, significantly raising costs [5] - The food industry is advocating for targeted approaches to tariffs to support domestic production and job retention [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group revenue increased by 14.3% to $2.4 billion, and adjusted EBITDA rose by 9.3% to $137 million [4][12] - Adjusted net income was $53 million, with adjusted diluted EPS at $0.55, reflecting a 12% growth compared to the prior year [5][14] - Operating income increased by 20% to $103 million, driven by higher revenue and gross profit [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fresh Fruit segment achieved adjusted EBITDA of $72.7 million, with strong volume growth in bananas and pineapples, although constrained by higher sourcing costs due to tropical storm Sarah [6][14] - Diversified EMEA segment saw adjusted EBITDA increase by approximately 15% to $49 million, driven by strong revenue growth in key markets [9][10] - Diversified Americas segment reported revenue growth of 8.5%, with adjusted EBITDA increasing by 27%, primarily due to strong performance in Southern Hemisphere exports [11][17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, strong volume growth was noted in bananas and pineapples, with higher pricing contributing to revenue increases [6][14] - The European market experienced higher volumes and pricing across products, supported by tight sourcing conditions and a strengthening euro [7][10] - Industry supply was tighter than anticipated, impacting sourcing costs and overall market dynamics [8][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The sale of the fresh vegetable division was completed, allowing the company to focus on core business activities and strategic priorities [5][21] - The company is optimistic about internal and external development opportunities, particularly in fresh produce and diversified EMEA [54] - The company plans to maintain capital expenditures in line with depreciation and invest in rehabilitation projects following tropical storm damage [20][21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the resilience of the diversified business model despite short-term disruptions in the macroeconomic environment [20] - The company has adjusted its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance upwards to a range of $380 million to $390 million [20] - Management acknowledged the complexity of forecasting in the current environment, particularly regarding supply chain disruptions and tariff impacts [28][42] Other Important Information - The company declared a dividend of $0.85 for the second quarter, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders [19] - Cash capital expenditure from continuing operations was $19.4 million, with additional investments in logistics and infrastructure [17][18] Q&A Session Summary Question: Reconciliation of updated EBITDA outlook - Management noted strong performance in 2024 but highlighted challenges from weather issues and sourcing costs impacting EBITDA guidance [24][26] Question: Impact of tariffs on pricing - Management explained the complexity of pricing adjustments due to various factors, including tariffs, sourcing issues, and foreign exchange volatility [30][34] Question: Fresh vegetables disposal and debt repayment - Management confirmed that proceeds from the fresh vegetable division sale would primarily be used for debt repayment and to clarify strategic focus [35][36] Question: Supply outlook beyond Q3 - Management indicated that while supply disruptions would continue into Q4, the industry typically stabilizes quickly [41][43] Question: Discussions on tariff exclusions - Management stated that they believe in the benefits of international trade and have seen some positive discussions regarding tariff exemptions for products not grown in the U.S. [44][46] Question: Future development opportunities - Management highlighted ongoing evaluations of acquisition opportunities and internal projects across various regions [52][54]

Core Viewpoint - ASEAN remains China's largest trading partner, with a significant influx of fruits from the region, particularly through Guangxi, which is becoming a vital trade hub for ASEAN fruits [1][5][8] Group 1: Trade Dynamics - In the first half of the year, Guangxi's ports imported 780,000 tons of fruits from ASEAN, marking a year-on-year increase of over 50% [5] - Guangxi serves as a crucial land passage to ASEAN countries, facilitating rapid fruit imports, especially during the durian season [1][6] - The establishment of the China-ASEAN Fruit Trading Center aims to enhance the distribution of ASEAN fruits across China, improving domestic consumption options [8] Group 2: Logistics and Efficiency - Guangxi has 22 open ports and a comprehensive logistics network that includes land, sea, and air routes, ensuring quick distribution of fruits [5][6] - The customs clearance process is highly efficient, with cold chain vehicles passing through checkpoints in under 20 seconds [6] - The local customs authority has developed a robust inspection system, capable of conducting over 500 safety and health checks on imported fruits [6][8] Group 3: Market Impact - The influx of tropical fruits from ASEAN, such as durians and dragon fruits, is significantly enriching the variety available in Chinese markets [1][3] - The logistics framework allows for rapid delivery of imported fruits, with products reaching major markets like Guangzhou and Beijing within hours [8]

Core Points - China is expanding its zero-tariff policy to 53 African countries, effective December 1, 2024, which will significantly lower the cost of African products entering the Chinese market [7][9][10] - This initiative is expected to deepen economic cooperation between China and Africa, enhancing the value-added potential of trade [7][10] Group 1: Economic Impact - The zero-tariff policy will cover a wide range of products, including agricultural goods like coffee, cocoa, and fruits, as well as minerals and industrial products [10][12] - In 2022, trade between China and Africa reached a record high of $295.6 billion, with China maintaining its position as Africa's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years [9][10] - The import of coffee from Africa to China saw a remarkable increase of 70.4% in the first quarter of this year, while cocoa imports rose by 56.8% [9][10] Group 2: Market Opportunities - The policy aims to create more opportunities for African countries to export to China, thereby supporting local economies and enhancing their industrial capabilities [12][14] - Chinese enterprises are increasingly investing in African economic zones, which is expected to create significant employment opportunities and boost local tax revenues [14][15] - The initiative encourages the establishment of processing bases and logistics systems in Africa, facilitating a more integrated trade relationship [15] Group 3: Strategic Development - The expansion of the zero-tariff policy represents a shift from limited, specific agreements to a more comprehensive approach that benefits all African partners equally [11][12] - The initiative is designed to respond to African nations' aspirations for equitable participation in global trade, simplifying customs procedures and enhancing trade facilitation [11][12] - The establishment of a pre-assessment system for African food products is expected to streamline their entry into the Chinese market, further promoting trade [11][12]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint is that China is expanding its zero-tariff policy to 53 African countries, which will enhance trade relations and promote deeper industrial cooperation between China and Africa [1][3][4] - The zero-tariff policy will significantly lower barriers for African products entering the Chinese market, facilitating an increase in the variety and scale of exports from Africa [3][4][6] - In 2022, the trade volume between China and Africa reached $295.6 billion, marking a historical high for the fourth consecutive year, with China maintaining its position as Africa's largest trading partner for 16 years [3][4] Group 2 - The zero-tariff policy includes a wide range of products such as oil, minerals, agricultural products, and processed goods, all of which will enjoy complete tax exemption when entering the Chinese market [4][5] - The policy aims to provide equal market access for all African partners, moving from a limited opening model to a more comprehensive approach that benefits various developing countries [5][6] - The implementation of the zero-tariff policy is expected to increase exports of minerals, energy, and agricultural products from Africa to China, supporting economic diversification and industrial upgrading in African nations [6][10] Group 3 - Chinese enterprises are actively investing in African economic zones and promoting industrial chain cooperation, contributing to local tax revenue, employment, and export earnings [8][9] - The establishment of processing bases and procurement centers in Africa by Chinese companies is anticipated to enhance global capital allocation and attract more value-added industries to local markets [10] - The zero-tariff policy is expected to create competitive pressure that encourages Chinese companies to adopt advanced technologies and improve product quality, thereby fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between China and Africa [9][10]

Core Viewpoint - The event highlighted significant advancements in the protection and utilization of tropical crop germplasm resources in China, showcasing over 180 new varieties and technologies, and emphasizing the strategic importance of these resources for agricultural development [1][2]. Group 1: Achievements in Germplasm Resource Protection - China has achieved notable success in the protection and utilization of tropical crop germplasm, with a total of over 90,000 germplasm resources preserved nationwide [2][3]. - The preservation of resources such as sugarcane, lychee, and longan ranks first globally, while rubber trees and mangoes rank second, indicating a strong strategic reserve in tropical crop germplasm [1][2]. - The establishment of 105 tropical crop germplasm nurseries and the development of over 300 tissue preservation technologies demonstrate the systematic approach to resource management [2]. Group 2: Innovations and Developments - The research institutes have played a crucial role in variety innovation, with over 500 new tropical crop varieties developed and more than 300 technological products created, leading to increased yields and quality [3]. - The introduction of high-yield varieties, such as the cold-resistant rubber tree variety "Heyan 917," has resulted in yield increases of over 50% [2]. - The banana industry has seen a significant transformation, moving from minimal cultivation to becoming the second-largest producer globally [2]. Group 3: Challenges and Recommendations - Despite progress, there are still gaps in the protection and utilization of tropical crop germplasm, including a lag in development pace and technology compared to major crops [3]. - Recommendations include accelerating the collection and preservation of tropical germplasm, enhancing the construction of nurseries, and improving the efficiency and quality of resource preservation [4]. - Establishing a commercial breeding system led by enterprises and enhancing the market development of superior tropical crop varieties are suggested to optimize resource utilization [4].

Core Viewpoint - Tropical crop germplasm resources are a significant strategic resource for China, with a total preservation volume steadily increasing to over 90,000 samples [1] Group 1: Germplasm Resource Preservation - China has established 105 tropical crop germplasm resource nurseries (repositories) and developed over 300 tissue culture preservation technologies for crops such as natural rubber and cassava, achieving scientific and standardized preservation [1] - The preservation volume of lychee and longan germplasm ranks first in the world, while rubber trees and mangoes rank second; other important tropical crops like cassava, oil palm, pineapple, and coconut also rank among the top five globally [1] Group 2: Breeding and Variety Promotion - Significant achievements have been made in breeding and promoting new tropical crop varieties, with over 200 tropical crop varieties approved at the national and provincial levels by the end of 2024, and more than 40 registered varieties [1] - The coverage rate of main promoted varieties exceeds 90%, laying a solid foundation for the development of tropical agriculture in the country [1] Group 3: Future Development Strategies - The industry aims to enhance management, funding, protection, collaboration, and international exchange through five key strategies [2] - Specific actions include accelerating the collection of tropical crop germplasm resources, strengthening the construction of nurseries, promoting advanced breeding technology, and establishing a commercial breeding system led by enterprises for better market development of new varieties [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of ensuring that fresh lychees are available nationwide, highlighting the cultural and economic significance of this fruit in China, particularly in Guangdong province [10][24]. Group 1: Cultural Significance - Fresh lychee is a summer delicacy that has sparked discussions among netizens, reflecting a deep-seated desire for access to this fruit across the country [4][5]. - Guangdong residents have a strong attachment to fresh lychee, not only wanting to enjoy it themselves but also wishing for others nationwide to experience it [8][10]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - Advances in planting and preservation technologies have allowed for the successful distribution of lychees across China and even globally, overcoming previous challenges in freshness [16][17]. - New varieties and preservation techniques, such as the "frozen dormancy" method, have been developed to extend the shelf life of lychees, achieving freshness retention for up to 35 days [16][17]. Group 3: Economic Implications - The push to market lychees nationwide represents a significant business opportunity for Guangdong, as it aims to enhance the distribution of local agricultural products [15][22]. - The successful model of lychee distribution can be replicated for other regional products, potentially strengthening the domestic market and promoting a unified national market [20][22]. Group 4: Broader Impact - Ensuring access to fresh lychees is not just about consumer satisfaction; it also reflects the hard work of farmers and the effectiveness of agricultural modernization driven by technological innovation [24][25]. - The efficient operation of national infrastructure is highlighted as a key factor in the successful distribution of agricultural products, contributing to the overall economic stability [25][26].

Core Insights - The event "Xiaxiangqu - Mindizhang'an" focused on promoting agricultural, cultural, and tourism integration through a summer fruit festival, attracting visitors to rural areas and stimulating local consumption [1][4]. Group 1: Event Overview - The event featured seasonal fruits like lychee and dragon fruit, creating a vibrant atmosphere that encouraged community engagement and exploration of rural consumption [1]. - A "Harvest Market" with 30 stalls showcased local agricultural products, drawing significant interest from attendees [1]. Group 2: Activities and Engagement - Interactive areas included games for children and parents, such as "Fruit Catching" and "Watermelon Ring Toss," enhancing family participation and enjoyment [2]. - A creative fruit banquet highlighted local dishes, integrating regional flavors and culinary experiences, which resonated well with visitors [2]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The event generated nearly 100,000 yuan in income for local villagers and the community in a single day, with over 500 attendees participating in various activities [4]. - The introduction of six premium agricultural tourism routes aims to connect urban populations with rural experiences, promoting sustainable economic growth in the area [4].