Apple crop to fall short of juice demand

China, is facing apple shortages this year due to further rises in demand for apple juice and poor weather, Reuters reported. The country, the world's largest apple grower, produces 5,000 tons of apple juice concentrate per hour and supplies about two-thirds of the world's total. This year's crop falls short by as much as 50-60% in some regions due to unseasonal weather, officials have said. The US Department of Agriculture's attache in Bejing says he expects China's apple crop this year to drop 12%.