South African pears have become a dominant presence in the Indian market, overshadowing international counterparts. This shift has been attributed to their quality and steady availability, as noted by a leading fruit importer in India.
During the IFPA Southern Africa conference, Shubha Rawal, head of sourcing at IG International, shared insights on the remarkable performance of South African fruit in India. "In the last five years, what we've seen with South African apples, pears, citrus, it has been amazing," Rawal stated. She emphasized the demand for varieties like Forelles and Vermonts, acknowledging a significant market preference for South African pears over others.
The resilience of South African pears against price inflation has been notable, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has altered dietary preferences towards healthier options, including fruits like pears. Rawal pointed out the absence of competition from other regions, praising the year-round supply from South Africa.
However, the success of pear exports to India has sparked concerns regarding market competition among different South African pear cultivars. Hortgro's efforts over the past decade to diversify export markets from traditional destinations to emerging ones like India have been highlighted. From 2006 to 2023, there was a significant shift in export dynamics, with a notable increase in the volume directed towards emerging markets, including India.
Source: The South African