New Zealand kiwifruit marketer Zespri has raised its financial forecasts under positive outlook of Zespri Gold returns in the remaining year. The firm hopes 6 per cent rise in total payments for the 2009/10 season despite turbulent export sector.

The firm expects better returns from Zespri Gold, however, it remained tight lipped over returns from Zespri Green and Green Organic.

Total fruit and service payments has been revised to NZ$8.06 per tray as compared to NZ$7.59 per tray in 2008/09. It becomes a rise of NZ$22.3m over the earlier predictions announced by the firm in August.

Lain Jager, the CEO of Zespri, said, that reduced fuel costs and improved exchange rates, especially of yen, has prompted the company to revise the forecasts. He added, "It is important to note that this is only a forecast and we have a way to go in most markets. At this stage Green pricing and sales volumes are tracking as expected as we work our way to a positive close for the Green season."

Jager said that the year remained full of accomplishments for the company and it has responded well to the dynamic market due to its integrated structure.