There are both domestic and export markets for non-astringent persimmons. The domestic market is small and sensitive to oversupply. The economics of growing persimmons is most strongly determined by what percentage of production meets export standards. Most other Asian countries, the Middle East and Pacific islands represent small markets with varying potential for development. Quarantine barriers prevent Australian access to markets such as Japan, China, Korea and Taiwan.
All exports are currently air-freighted because sea freight has resulted in unreliable outturns.
Modified atmosphere technology for extending storage life is expected to be available soon. The Australian marketing season extends from late February to early June. From late April onwards, competition from New Zealand, which has an industry five times bigger than Australia's, can be expected. APEC handles well over half of Australia's total persimmon exports, and about two-thirds of the Australia's exports to Singapore. APEC has developed its own quality management program, and two dedicated brands Sweet Gold and Golden Star.