In 2019, the global fresh pears market was valued at approximately US$ 25,282.2 million and is anticipated to grow to around US$ 37,075.5 million by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2020 to 2027.
Fresh pears are appreciated for their delicious fruits and juices, with the Red Bartlett variety being specifically cultivated as trees. This fruit is indigenous to the coastal and temperate regions of the old world, spanning from Western Europe to North America and across Asia. Fresh pears are rich in dietary fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. They are an excellent source of vitamins C, A (including provitamin A), B, and K, as well as minerals like potassium, magnesium, and copper. Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that the vitamins A and C found in pears can enhance immune function. Antioxidants in pears promote the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for a robust immune response, helping the body fend off common ailments such as colds, flu, and digestive issues. Additionally, consuming fresh pears contributes to improved bone health, better blood circulation, wound healing, cardiovascular health, digestive wellness, weight management, reduced diabetes risk, and lower inflammation levels. Pears are also noted for their potential anticancer properties and benefits for skin and hair health.
The fresh pear market is categorized by type into several segments, including Green Anjou, Red Anjou, Bartlett, Red Bartlett, Bosc, Concorde, Seckel, Comice, Forelle, Starkrimson, and others. In 2019, the Green Anjou segment led the market. Green Anjou pears are characterized by their squat, egg-like shape, featuring a broader lower section that tapers to a narrow rounded top. These pears are typically bright green, sometimes exhibiting a soft red blush, and they undergo a subtle color change as they ripen. Known for their sweet, mellow flavor and smooth, juicy texture, Green Anjou pears are a popular choice for breakfast. While they are often enjoyed raw, they are also suitable for baking, poaching, and roasting. A classic dish made with Green Anjou pears is Pear Tarte Tatin. The harvest season for Green Anjou pears begins in the fall, with availability peaking in September and early October, although they can be found in markets year-round, especially during the summer months. They are commonly used in salads, desserts, sauces, and beverages.
Geographically, the fresh pears market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), South America, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA). In 2019, the Asia Pacific region held the largest share of the global fresh pears market, followed by Europe and North America. China is a key player in the fresh pears market within the Asia Pacific, with significant contributions from other countries in the region. The rising demand for various fresh pear types in Asia Pacific is a driving force for market growth. China stands out as a leading producer of pears, with Japan, Korea, and India also contributing to the market. The predominant pear species in this region is Pyrus pyrifolia, commonly referred to as Asian pear, which is native to East Asia. This species is known by various names, including Chinese pear, Japanese pear, Taiwanese pear, Korean pear, zodiac pear, apple pear, three-halves pear, and sand pear. In the Himalayan regions of India and Nepal, it is cultivated as a cash crop. For centuries, pear fruits have been utilized in traditional medicine, including Ayurvedic practices and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where they are used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and rhinitis. Pears are also recognized for their antitussive properties, helping to alleviate coughs, reduce inflammation, and clear phlegm. Furthermore, in this region, pear peels are used in cosmetic products for skin-whitening due to their arbutin content. In Taiwan, pears are regarded as a fruit crop of significant economic importance, with most cultivated varieties being of the Asian type. In Southeast Asia, countries like Myanmar and Thailand also grow Asian pears, particularly in the cooler highland areas of northern Thailand, where the climate is conducive to their cultivation.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, has rapidly spread worldwide, significantly impacting various nations, including the USA, Brazil, India, Russia, South Africa, Mexico, Spain, and the UK, as of April 2020. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were approximately 22,593,620 confirmed cases and 791,200 deaths globally. The pandemic has disrupted economies and industries due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business closures, with the global food and beverage sector experiencing substantial challenges. These disruptions have notably affected the fresh pears market.
Key players in the global fresh pears market include Salix Fruits, Duckwall Fruit, Rainier Fruit Co., Sage Fruit Company, BEL'EXPORT, William H. Kopke JR., Inc., Stemilt Growers LLC, Domex Superfresh Growers, Underwood Fruit & Warehouse Co., and Washington Fruit & Produce Co.
The overall size of the global fresh pears market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process began with extensive secondary research utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data related to the market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were conducted with industry participants and experts to validate the findings and gain deeper insights into the market dynamics. Participants in this research typically included industry professionals such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, along with external consultants, valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in fresh pears.