Co. Directories Events Market Asia Archives Search Home Market Asia and RAP Archives Japan Commodity Profiles Tom Klotzbach, Jason Graef, Bob Galinsky Asparagus imports increased from 11,926 MTs in 1988 to 15,045 MTs in 1992. Imports are estimated to account for roughly 25 percent of total domestic supply, with domestic production decreasing over the last several years. Since 1988, Thailand and the Philippines have significantly increased their import market share, from a combined 0.8 percent to a current 23.6 percent. Imports from the Philippines have increased the most dramatically and are significantly cheaper than supplies from other countries, including those from Thailand. Imports are seasonal in nature, most entering Japan between September and April.
Imports are lowest during the summer months, presumably when Japanese local production is strongest.
The Philippines and Thailand supply product every month, although summer shipments are significantly lower than those recorded in other months. The United States supplies product primarily from March to May, although sizeable shipments have been recorded between July and September. Pineapple imports have declined 7.7 percent during the past five years, from 138,157 MTs in 1988 to 127,466 MTs in 1992. Industry sources estimate that fresh-cut could soon comprise 20 percent of the fresh market. The Philippines has increased its dominance of the market, expanding its import market share from 94.3 percent in 1988 to 98.4 percent in 1992.