According to EastFruit, Uzbekistan has fallen out of the list of the world's largest table grape exporters by the end of 2023. In 2022, Uzbekistan ranked 9th globally in grape export volume, but in 2023, it plummeted 11 places to barely hold onto the 20th spot. The export volume dropped eightfold within a year due to a severe grape catastrophe – the destruction of vineyards over extensive areas caused by abnormal frosts.
The loss of vineyards dealt a significant blow to the fruit and vegetable sector, as table grapes were the main export revenue source for the country and a crucial income stream for many small farmers in Uzbekistan. The impact extended beyond the fresh fruit export sector to the dried fruit sector, as raisins (dried table grapes) are also one of the country's primary export products, particularly in agriculture. While fresh grapes are mainly sold to neighboring countries due to an outdated variety set and complex logistics, raisin exports were notably diversified. Importantly, an increasing share of raisin exports went to high-income countries, unlike the countries that purchased fresh table grapes.
The situation became so critical that Uzbekistan even imported grapes. However, it appears that the vineyards were restored relatively quickly, as prices have already returned to the usual level for this time of year for most major grape varieties and types.
Source: East Fruit