The South African exporters of fresh produce who participated in the Fruit Logistica Berlin international exhibition in Germany from 5 – 7 February 2025 arrived in the country today with a bag full of over 200 quality trade leads.
The South African National Pavilion that was set up by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) offered a platform for exporters to promote and showcase South African fresh produce potential in general and the potential of participating companies, in particular.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Fresh Produce Exporters Forum, Mr Anton Kruger said it was critical for the exporters to participate in the popular exhibition to ensure that South Africa is visible as the biggest exporter of fresh fruit in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Chief Executive Officer of Fresh Produce Exporters Forum, Mr Anton Kruger.
"The exhibition gave the exporters an opportunity to get new trade leads, establish new relationships, and most importantly, maintain existing relationships and sign contracts for the next season for the citrus fruits, amongst others. Some of the members reported up to 50 new leads and they are pleased with the platform provided which gave them the space to conduct business, get deals, and maintain relationships," said Kruger.
According to Kruger, the fresh produce industry requires exporters to be present at trade shows and meet clients face-to-face. The fresh fruit industry is in essence a 'people industry'. He adds that the pavilion was a big value to the exporters and producers, especially as it was in the same location as previous years.
"The benefit of this is that existing and potential clients now know where to find the South Africans every year," added Kruger.
The Director of Iris Fresh, Mr Sandeep Valodia, signed deals with three new customers from Mauritius, France, and the Netherlands, and recorded several other tangible leads that could turn into export sales in the near future.
The group received support from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) to promote and showcase their fresh produce potential.
For more information:
Bongani Lukhele
DTIC
Tel: +27 012 394 1643
Email: BLukhele@thedtic.gov.za
www.thedtic.gov.za