South Africa: Avocado exports down on 2012 season

Harvesting of the new South African avocado crop is due to start towards the end of March and the first arrivals will hit European shores in week 13.

Derek Donkin, CEO of the South African Avocado Growers Association explained that that exports will be down this year, but this due to the alternate bearing nature of the crop and this year is a down year. "Last year South Africa exported 12.6 million 4 kg boxes (50,400 tonnes), this year's export is estimated at 10.5 million boxes (42,000 tonnes).

Despite this, Hass export volumes will be similar to last year, with Hass expected make up at least 65% of this year’s export crop.

Markets for the avocado have remained mostly unchanged, Europe still being the main destination. The South African avocado hits the market at the same time as the Peruvian, but Donkin is confident about the demand for the South African fruit as buyers can be certain of the quality.

For more information:
Derek Donkin
SAAGA
Tel: +27 153073676
Email: [email protected]
www.avocado.co.za