South Africa's table grape industry reports mixed trends in exports and inspections up to Week 50 of the 2024/2025 season. A total of 10.99 million cartons were inspected for export, a 12.6% decline compared to last year, due to lower yields in early varieties across the Northern Provinces and Orange River regions. However, exports reached 7.51 million cartons, reflecting a 23% increase from the previous season, attributed to improved logistics and reduced stock buildup.
Three of the five key growing regions—Northern Provinces, Orange River, and Olifants River—are actively packing, while the Berg River and Hex River regions are preparing to start. Notable inspected volumes included Prime (1.27 million cartons), Early Sweet (349,685 cartons), and Midnight Beauty (254,317 cartons). Export volumes followed similar trends, with the same three varieties leading. Most producers in the Berg River region expect to begin packing in Week 52, while the Hex River region plans to start in Week 51. Favorable weather across all regions bodes well for mid-season harvests, with growers anticipating a quality crop.
Export destinations continue to be dominated by the EU and UK, receiving 87% of shipments, with 7% sent to North America. Improvements at the Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) have enhanced efficiency, with gross crane moves per hour increasing to 18 from 11 the previous year. CTCT has implemented several measures to boost productivity and stakeholder communication, including better windbound strategies and reefer management.
Regionally, the Northern Provinces packed 2.92 million cartons, an 11% decrease due to delays in harvesting early varieties. The Orange River region packed 8.03 million cartons, 12% less than last year, but mid-season varieties are performing well. The Olifants River region packed significantly less, with only 44,099 cartons, reflecting a 71% drop due to delayed harvesting. Namibia reported strong early-season performance, with 7.58 million cartons inspected, a 10% increase year-on-year.
Globally, Peru and Chile continue to expand their export markets. Chile expects a 2% rise in exports to 120 million cartons, driven by growth in North and Latin American markets. Peru, initially forecasting a 25% increase to 142 million cartons, is revising estimates due to water shortages in key regions. Both countries are investing in new grape varieties, such as Autumncrisp and Timpson, to meet evolving market demands.
With favorable weather and improvements in logistics, South Africa's grape industry is well-positioned for a successful season, despite challenges in early yields and water constraints in global markets. The focus remains on maintaining quality and meeting international demand efficiently.
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