Abstract: To estimate pesticide residues in fresh apples, from 2003 to 2004, 153 samples collected in Chinese main apple producing areas were tested for residues of 29 pesticides, among which 65 samples from Area around Bohai Sea, and 88 samples from Northwest Loess Plateau Area. Testing indicated 96.08% of samples had detectable residues, and 13.07% of samples had violation residues. Detectable residues of 14 pesticides were found, among which only carbendazim, dichlorvos, fenthion, and parathion had violation residues, with violation rates 6.54%, 4.58%, 2.61% and 0.65%, respectively. Causes of residue violation were also discussed, and the corresponding advice for reducing pesticide residue in apples was provided.