Soluna™ Apples Set to Shine in China as Australian Mainland Apple Exports Approved
“This is an exciting development for the Soluna™ brand, the opening of the Chinese market validates the years of export and commercialisation efforts behind this variety.
ANABP 01 was bred in Australia for exceptional taste, shelf appeal and export readiness, and this market access creates a valuable opportunity to scale its presence globally”
Soluna™, Australia’s premium apple brand known for its crisp texture, vibrant burgundy skin and exceptional taste, is celebrating a new era of international growth following the announcement of technical market access for Australian mainland apples to China.
This milestone, achieved through a newly signed biosecurity protocol between Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and China’s General Administration of Customs, will allow Soluna™ apples to be exported to China starting in the 2026 season.
“Soluna apples were commercialised with a global consumer in mind – super sweet with a balanced palette which is flavour-forward, eye-catching and grown to the highest horticultural standards,” said Sean Engelbrecht, Commercialisation Manager at WA Farm Direct. “The Chinese market, with its strong demand for premium, branded fresh fruit, perfectly matches the Soluna™ profile. Consumers are modern, health-conscious and the natural health benefits that Soluna™ can offer positions them perfectly for export. Soluna™ apples are high in antioxidants, dietary fibre and low in kilojoules, making them ideal snacks for wellness-focused consumers.”
The agreement is the result of years of industry collaboration and persistence, coordinated by Apple and Pear Australia Limited (APAL) through its trade development and market access program. Until now, only apples from Tasmania were eligible for export to China.
“China is a dynamic, high-value market with discerning consumers who value quality and consistency,” Sean added. “We believe Soluna™ apples will resonate strongly with Chinese consumers seeking premium fresh produce that delivers on health, taste and presentation.”
Fruit West Cooperative, the Australian commercial rights holder of ANABP 01 which is branded as Soluna™ internationally, also welcomed the news and highlighted the significance for growers and the variety’s long-term potential.
Soluna™’s entry into China will not only support premium positioning for Australian apples abroad but will also provide much-needed diversification beyond the domestic market.