Source: Tom Karst, THE PACKER, 2/22/19

   
The latest fiscal 2019 trade estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture raise predictions for fresh produce imports compared with a November forecast but keep the estimate for fresh produce exports stable. U.S. imports of fresh fruit in fiscal 2019 (year ending Sept. 30) are projected at $13.7 billion, up $600 million from both the November estimate and fiscal 2018 imports. Trade statistics from the USDA showed October-November U.S. imports of berries (excluding strawberries) totaled $623 million, up 25% from $498 million the same period the previous year.

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