China is one of the world’s largest producers of fresh apples and pears, supplying a wide range of varieties at competitive prices. For importers and wholesalers in Africa, the Middle East, and beyond, China is often a key sourcing hub for these fruits. However, navigating suppliers, quality standards, export documentation, and logistics can be complex—especially if you are new to fresh produce imports.

Wigmore Trading helps buyers streamline the process of buying and exporting apples and pears from China, ensuring consistent quality and reliable delivery.

Why source apples and pears from China?

China’s fresh fruit industry has grown rapidly over the past decade, supported by large-scale orchards, modern packing facilities, and established export channels. For importers and distributors, sourcing apples and pears from China offers several advantages:

• Wide variety and volumes – From popular apple varieties like Fuji and Gala to crisp Chinese pears and Ya pears, you can secure the right product mix for your market.

• Competitive pricing – Large production volumes help keep prices attractive, especially for buyers ordering container quantities.

• Established export infrastructure – Cold-chain facilities, reefer shipping options, and experienced exporters make regular shipments more reliable.

For businesses in Africa and other emerging markets where local production is limited or seasonal, Chinese apples and pears can help fill supply gaps, support year-round availability, and meet growing consumer demand for fresh fruit.

Key considerations when exporting apples and pears from China

Although the Chinese market offers strong opportunities, successful importing requires careful planning. Below are the main factors to consider—and how Wigmore Trading can support you at each step.

1. Choosing the right varieties and grades

Every market has different preferences. Some prefer sweeter Fuji apples; others focus on size and appearance for supermarket shelves. Pears may be sold loose in traditional markets or packed for retail chains.

Important questions include:

• Which apple and pear varieties sell best in your market?

• What size range and colour specifications do your buyers expect?

• Do you need premium grades for retail or mixed grades for wholesale?

Wigmore Trading works with a network of approved Chinese packers and exporters to match these requirements. We can help you specify:

• Variety (e.g. Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious; Ya pear, fragrant pear)

• Size count per carton

• Grade (Class I, Class II, or mixed)

• Packaging type (loose bulk cartons or tray-packed)

By clearly defining these parameters up front, you reduce the risk of disputes, rejections, or discounted sales on arrival.

2. Quality control and food safety

Apples and pears are perishable products. Quality at loading will directly impact condition at destination. It’s essential to work with partners that understand:

• Correct harvesting and handling

• Cooling and pre-cooling standards

• Sorting and grading for export

• Compliance with pesticide residue and food safety regulations

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Wigmore Trading helps coordinate inspections at origin, including:

• Pre-shipment quality checks

• Verification of packing and labelling

• Temperature and loading supervision for reefer containers

For buyers in Africa and other regions, this on-the-ground support reduces the risk of receiving fruit that is soft, bruised, or out of specification. Wigmore Trading can help you develop clear quality standards and ensure that Chinese exporters meet them.

3. Documentation, compliance, and import regulations

Each importing country has its own requirements for fresh fruit:

• Phytosanitary certificates

• Certificates of origin

• Health and fumigation certificates (where required)

• Correct HS codes and customs documentation

Missing or incorrect paperwork can lead to delays, extra costs, or even rejection at the border. Wigmore Trading is experienced in handling the full document set for exports from China into various African and global markets. We work closely with exporters and inspection authorities to ensure:

• All certificates are issued correctly and on time

• Labels and cartons meet destination requirements

• Shipping documentation is complete for customs clearance

If you are unsure about the regulations in your country, Wigmore Trading can help you understand what is needed before you place an order.

4. Logistics and cold-chain management

Maintaining the cold chain is critical for apples and pears. The right temperature, ventilation, and handling will extend shelf life and preserve firmness and flavour.

Key logistics steps include:

• Pre-cooling the fruit before loading

• Using refrigerated containers with correct set points

• Planning optimal transit times and routes

• Coordinating with shipping lines and local clearing agents

Wigmore Trading coordinates the full logistics process from packing house in China to port of arrival in your country. We assist with:

• Booking refrigerated containers (reefers)

• Monitoring loading and sealing of containers

• Coordinating with freight forwarders and shipping lines

• Supporting you with arrival planning and distribution

By relying on an experienced trading partner, you can focus on your sales and customers rather than worrying about every step of the supply chain.

5. Pricing, payment terms, and risk management

Fresh produce markets can be volatile. Prices for apples and pears can shift based on season, harvest size, and global demand. To protect your margins, it’s important to:

• Understand seasonal price trends

• Compare different sourcing regions and varieties

• Agree clear Incoterms (FOB, CIF, etc.)

• Manage currency and payment risks

Wigmore Trading can provide guidance on:

• Pricing options and shipment planning

• Suitable order quantities for your market

• Recommended terms that balance security and flexibility

For many buyers, starting with trial shipments allows them to test demand before committing to larger volumes. Wigmore Trading can help structure these first orders and scale up as your sales grow.

How Wigmore Trading supports your apple and pear imports from China

When you buy and export apples and pears from China, you need more than just a supplier—you need a partner that understands both sides of the trade. Wigmore Trading acts as that bridge, offering:

• Supplier sourcing and vetting – We identify reliable Chinese producers and exporters that align with your quality and volume requirements.

• Technical and quality support – From defining specifications to arranging independent inspections, we help protect your brand and reputation.

• End-to-end logistics coordination – Ocean freight, documentation, and customs preparation are handled efficiently and transparently.

• Market-focused approach – We understand the needs of African importers, wholesalers, and retailers, and tailor shipments accordingly.

Whether you are a supermarket buyer, a wholesale distributor, an FMCG importer, or an independent trader, Wigmore Trading can help you build a sustainable sourcing strategy for apples and pears from China.

If you are planning your next fresh fruit season, considering new suppliers, or exploring Chinese apples and pears for the first time, our team is ready to assist. Wigmore Trading can help you reduce risk, save time, and secure consistent supply.

Get in touch with our team to learn more about how we can support your next shipment of apples and pears from China. Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing.