A new kiwifruit season is underway, and predictions for the billion dollar industry remain positive.

Despite the twin setbacks of vine disease PSA and the major Japanese export market in disarray, exporter and marketer Zespri are staying upbeat about the new harvest season.

The bacterial disease PSA was discovered in the country’s largest growing area, the Bay of Plenty, late last year, prompting fears this season’s numbers could be severely affected.

Zespri’s supply chain General Manager Sally Gardiner says thanks to swift action from growers and industry-good organisation KVH, those fears haven’t eventuated.

 “We’ve had a great growing season right through New Zealand, regular rain and high sunshine hours.

“It’s fantastic, the sizes are really good, and we’re looking at 100 million trays, there’s a lot of anticipation and excitement. It’s a real buzz.”

Sally Gardiner says this year’s export levels are likely to be similar to last season, around the 100 million tray mark, thanks to great growing conditions and high rainfall levels early in the year.

Ms Gardiner says the situation in Japan is concerning, as it’s one of our largest export markets.

 “Our programme in Japan is continuing as normal. Like the other New Zealand exporters, we’re looking at the unfolding situation and will adapt it as we go through.”

 Zespri says it’s going ahead with initial exports of Gold fruit into Japan, and demand worldwide for the fruit remains strong.