Over the past 25 years, South Africa's kiwifruit industry has adapted to its warm climate by focusing on yellow and red-fleshed varieties. This strategic shift addresses challenges linked to traditional green kiwifruit production, positioning the country as an emerging player in global markets.
Historically, South Africa's climate posed limitations for green kiwifruit, which requires colder winters. However, the same conditions favor newer yellow and red varieties, which thrive with less winter chill. Pieter de Jongh of The Kiwi Connection stated, "The warmer South African climate is more suited to produce yellow- and red-flesh kiwis."
The Kiwi Connection, a joint venture between TopFruit and the RSA Group, is central to this development. The organization trials supports, and commercializes new kiwifruit varieties across Southern Africa, holding the master license for KiwiKo's varieties in the region. KiwiKo, established in 2020 by TopFruit and Miko Asia, collaborates with Yanoon BioTech in China on an advanced breeding program.
Reflecting sector momentum, The Kiwi Connection hosted South Africa's first Kiwifruit Field Day across Worcester, George, and Grabouw in the Western Cape. The event showcased a variety of kiwifruit grown under different climate conditions. It gathered 30 international specialists from countries including Portugal, France, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, China, and India, alongside 20 local experts, highlighting global interest in South Africa's kiwifruit potential.
While local consumers prefer green kiwifruit, international demand for yellow-fleshed varieties is rising. South Africa exports about 95% of its kiwifruit, supplying global markets during its harvest season from mid-February to late April, a period between Northern and Southern Hemisphere harvests.
Producers select varieties based on climate suitability and market demand. The kiwifruit sector mirrors the wine industry's process of varietal selection and adaptation, aligning with global trade patterns and consumer preferences. South Africa's recent increase in Braeburn apple exports exemplifies local growers' response to international demand and market shifts.
Events like the Kiwifruit Field Day facilitate knowledge exchange across countries and disciplines, fostering dialogue on production methods, sustainability, and commercial strategies. Advances in agricultural practices, supported by international partnerships and local research, are shaping a more resilient kiwifruit industry in South Africa.
Source: Cape Town Today