At the end of the season, Egyptian table grapes disappear from European markets, but continue to be exported to Africa, according to Aya Montasser, Export Manager at Fresh Yard.
"Our exports to Europe usually end in late June. Five years ago, we started exporting to Africa, which allows us to continue selling until September, and extend the campaign. The majority of our exports in Africa go to Nigeria. We also export to a lesser extent to Somalia, Kenia and other African countries," says Aya.
"The variety most in demand by our customers in Africa is Crimson, thanks to its high brix value. Globally, this market prefers red varieties, whereas we see a lot of demand for whites in Europe and blacks in Asia," she adds.
The Egyptian table grape season is also getting longer due to climate change. Aya says, "A warmer climate allows for the extension of the season and leads to an early harvest. We grow in covered farms, which allows us to work longer. The use of covered farms is rising annually in Egypt, this trend has contributed to an earlier start to the season and has consistently enhanced the quality of the produce."
This season, despite an early harvest, overall volumes have not increased according to the exporter. She adds, "We also had difficulties with the Red Sea situation, and we had to ship by air to many destinations instead."
"The most positive aspect of the season was the exceptional quality across all varieties, with sizes up to 18 and brix from 14 to 20 depending on the variety," concludes Aya.
For more information:
Aya Montasser
Fresh Yard
Tel: +20 103 371 4460
Email: [email protected]
www.fresh-yard.com