Against the backdrop of global supply chain restructuring and evolving consumer demand in 2026, how is Chinese food performing in the export market? According to the latest data from the Canned Fruit Branch of the China Chamber of Commerce of Import & Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce & Animal By-Products (CFNA), China's fruit canned exports in the first quarter of 2026 showed a steady trend of "increases in both volume and value." However, beneath the positive macro picture, structural differentiation by product category and market is quietly accelerating. Which category became the "top seller" this quarter? And which ones are experiencing growing pains? Let's dive into the data to find out.

01 Macro Overview: The "Ballast Stone" Against Headwinds

Overall Performance

In the first quarter of 2026, China's total fruit canned exports reached 161,700 tons, with a total export value of US$198 million. Despite the complex international trade environment, we still saw positive growth of "5% in volume and 2% in value," demonstrating the strong resilience of China's deep-processed fruit industry. However, the fact that the increase in value lagged behind the increase in volume sends a subtle signal that the industry may be facing rising raw material costs or downward pressure on unit export prices, with companies navigating a critical phase of "exchanging price for volume" to maintain market share.

02 Category Trends: The Dominance of Oranges and Peaches, Steady Growth for Pears

Overall Analysis

China's fruit canned exports have formed a three-pillar structure dominated by citrus, peaches, and pears, supplemented by a diversified matrix including lychees, pineapples, cherries, and mixed fruits.

Data Analysis

• Citrus canned remains the undisputed "leader," with export volume reaching 63,700 tons, accounting for nearly 40% of the market (39% market share).
• Peach canned follows closely behind, contributing 25% of the market share with 40,500 tons.
• Pear canned, as the third largest single product, accounts for 9% with 13,900 tons.

Together, citrus and peaches account for nearly 65% of the market. This highly concentrated product structure not only reflects economies of scale but also serves as a reminder to be wary of the market risks associated with over-reliance on a single category.

03 Market Landscape: Strong in the US, Weak in Japan, Pressured in Europe

Overall Performance

In the first quarter of 2026, China's fruit canned exports reached 123 countries and regions. An analysis of the TOP 8 markets reveals that geopolitical shifts and changing consumption habits are reshaping our export landscape.

Divergence in Mature Markets

• United States: Export volume of 57,600 tons, accounting for as much as 36% of the total. Despite numerous uncertainties, the US market still maintained a 5% volume increase, proving the rigid demand for Chinese canned products.
• Japan: Export volume of 25,600 tons, accounting for 16% of the total. However, volume dropped sharply by 12% year-on-year, and value plummeted by 13%. This reflects not only price declines but also the harsh reality of weak domestic consumption or inventory overhang in Japan.

The Chill in European Markets

Germany & Canada: Both markets have "braked" simultaneously. Germany saw a decline of over 22% in both volume and value, while Canada's value dropped by 18%. This may be closely related to the consumption downgrade caused by the European energy crisis and fluctuations in the euro exchange rate.

The Dawn of Emerging Markets

Thailand: Export volume of 6,200 tons, representing 4% of the market. Volume surged by 32%, while value increased by 28%. This is a noteworthy signal. Thailand, as a core hub of ASEAN, may see its import growth driven by re-export trade or an explosion in regional demand.

04 Production Base Reshuffle: The Rise of Anhui and Shandong, Transformation in Zhejiang

Overall Analysis

The domestic export landscape is undergoing a dramatic reshuffle. Zhejiang, Shandong, and Anhui provinces together contributed nearly 70% of total export volume, but their growth drivers are distinctly different.

Data Analysis

• Zhejiang: Export volume of 45,100 tons, accounting for 28% of the total. However, volume fell by 13% year-on-year, and value dropped by 15%. As the traditional industry leader, Zhejiang is facing severe industrial transformation pressure and urgently needs to move away from low-price competition.
• Shandong: Export volume of 35,800 tons, accounting for 22% of the total, maintaining a steady growth of around 8%. Relying on a complete industrial chain, the Shandong contingent demonstrated strong risk resistance.
• Anhui: Export volume of 26,900 tons, accounting for 17% of the total, with volume surging by 18% and value increasing by 16%. Leveraging labor cost advantages and policy dividends, Anhui is becoming the biggest beneficiary of industrial transfer and is the brightest highlight of this quarter.

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