The Guava Producers' Association has revised its guava production forecast for the current season to 22,500 tons, reflecting a 16% decrease from the previous season's yield of 26,641 tons, marking the smallest output in three years. The harvesting period, spanning from April to November, begins in Porterville and progresses through Wellington, Paarl, and Kraaifontein, concluding in Mossel Bay, located in the Western Cape.
According to Willem Grobbelaar, chairperson of the GPA, while production in Wellington, Kraaifontein, and Mossel Bay is anticipated to align with average levels, the season kicked off late in Porterville, resulting in smaller fruit sizes due to elevated summer temperatures and a delayed winter onset. Paarl's output is also projected to fall below average, attributed to wind damage incurred in April.
Amidst expectations of improved weather conditions, the GPA aims to enhance fruit sizes over the previous season, thereby increasing supply to the fresh market. Current market dynamics show over 70% of guavas being channelled into the juice sector, facing price pressures from high Brazilian production. The canning segment is similarly challenged, prompting a strategic shift towards the fresh market to offset rising operational costs.
The association is also focusing on promoting the consumption of fresh-cut guavas within the South African market, alongside advocating for the fruit's health benefits and versatility. Jacques Jordaan, CEO of the GPA, remarked on the previous year's unexpectedly large late-season harvest, which predominantly serviced the juice market, due to subpar quality. He noted the distribution of produce across markets has remained relatively stable, with juice, canning, and fresh segments absorbing 76%, 4%, and 20% of the output, respectively. Additionally, Jordaan highlighted labour costs as a significant challenge for guava farmers, compounded by unfavourable canning and juice market prices.
Source: farmersweekly.co.za