The Washington State Tree and Fruit Association (WSTFA) recently released a production forecast for 2021, showing that the packaging volume this season is expected to be close to 125 million boxes (18 kg boxes). This will be an increase of 2.3% from the output of 122 million boxes in 2020, but 7.2% less than the output of 134.5 million boxes in 2019.
"Apple production in Washington state in 2021 looks similar to last year," said Jon Devaney, President of wstfa“ The conditions in the growing season are always different. At present, many wstfa members are still evaluating the impact of adverse and changeable weather this summer. As the harvest has just begun and the weather conditions in the coming months are unknown, it is predicted that the scale of production may be further reduced. "
Gala will be the most prominent apple variety in Washington State's product portfolio for the third consecutive year, accounting for 21% of total production. Red Delicious is expected to account for 16% of total production, followed by Honeycrisp and Granny Smith with 14% each, and Fuji with 13%.
According to forecasts, the output of Cosmic Crisp, a new variety, is expected to increase by 114% over 2020, accounting for 3% of the total output. This output reflects the continuous growth of new varieties that meet the tastes of all consumers, as well as the high standards of quality expected by domestic and foreign consumers.