China's asparagus production is low

China's estimate for fresh asparagus production in MY2010 is lowered 16 percent to 210,000 metric tons (MT) based on lower acreage and unfavorable weather conditions. Rising labor costs for white asparagus has led farmers to plant more green asparagus (a less labor intensive crop). Due to declining production and rising prices for fresh asparagus, canned asparagus exports are also down 10 percent to 60,000 MT. Production in 2011 is forecast at 240,000 MT, a 14 percent increase from this year based on predictions of favorable weather. Post will continue to monitor crop prospects.