Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing South Africa has welcomed the news that apples can now be exported to Thailand again, following the granting of market access shortly before Christmas.
Roelf Pienaar, the managing director of Tru-Cape, expressed his enthusiasm about this.
"It's fantastic that South Africa can once again export apples to Thailand after losing this market for many years. Having Thailand as a new destination in the Far East for our apples will significantly enhance our footprint."
Varieties like Fuji, Joya, and Royal Gala are set to benefit from this access to the Thai market. Roelf also mentioned that they anticipate positive outcomes for Pink Lady apples in the future. According to industry body Hortgro, South African apple exports have surged by 40% over the past decade, primarily driven by exports to the Far East and Asia, where about 35% of all South African apple exports are directed.
As the South African industry gears up to launch a market development campaign aimed at reintroducing their apples to Thai traders and consumers, Roelf acknowledges that similar to the Chinese market, it will take time to cultivate the new market. "New Zealand apples have held a strong position in Thailand for many years, so we need to fully understand the opportunities available to maximize our success. We look forward to the challenge and to bringing Thai consumers our products." Tru-Cape currently exports apples and pears to over 105 markets around the globe.
For more information:
Tru-Cape
Tel: +27 (0)21 850 1800
Email: [email protected]
www.tru-cape.com