Strawberry imports surge 17% ahead of International Women's Day 2026

Imports of garden berries, particularly strawberries, rose sharply in early 2026. The peak in deliveries aligned with International Women’s Day on 8 March. Customs data shows a notable increase in shipments compared to the previous year. From January to May 2026, the Ussuriysk Customs automobile checkpoints processed 687 tons of strawberries. This figure marks a 17% rise over the same period in 2025. The Poltavka road checkpoint handled the largest share of these imports.

All strawberry shipments arrived with phytosanitary certificates from their countries of origin. To preserve freshness, the berries were transported in refrigerated containers throughout the year. Customs procedures were expedited due to the perishable nature of the fruit.

The highest volume of deliveries occurred around International Women’s Day rather than in summer. Experts point out that strawberries remain popular for seasonal consumption, especially in June. They suggest pairing them with greens, radishes, and new potatoes to address vitamin deficiencies after winter. The Healthy Eating Consultation Center at Pacific State Medical University provides tailored dietary advice. It offers personalised menu analysis for those looking to improve their nutrition. The centre supports incorporating seasonal produce like strawberries into daily diets.