By Week 10 of the 2024/25 season, South Africa’s table grape industry (SATI) has exceeded expectations, with 76.91 million cartons (4.5 kg equivalent) inspected for export—5% more than the same period last year and slightly above the national crop estimate of 76.40 million cartons. Exports stood at 69.10 million cartons, reflecting a 3% year-on-year increase.
Regions such as Hex River, Berg River, Orange River, and Olifants River have surpassed their season estimates, with Hex and Berg River still actively packing. The top three exported varieties remain Crimson Seedless, Autumncrisp®, and Scarlotta Seedless®.
Hex and Berg River Leading Growth
The Hex River Region has packed 23.51 million cartons, a 12% rise compared to last year, and surpassed its crop estimate by 1.5%. Quality has remained high with no rain-related disruptions, and producers expect the season to conclude within two weeks. The top varieties include Crimson Seedless (710,749 cartons), Autumncrisp® (303,458 cartons), and Scarlotta Seedless® (250,846 cartons).
Similarly, the Berg River Region packed 19.23 million cartons, 5% more than last year, exceeding its estimate by 2.8%. Producers expect the season to conclude within a week, having maintained consistent quality. The top varieties include Scarlotta Seedless®, Crimson Seedless, and Adora Seedless®.
Logistical Challenges and Improvements
Logistical disruptions, particularly at the Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT), have impacted exports. February saw 245 hours of wind delays, more than double that of February 2024. Despite these challenges, port productivity has improved, with gross crane moves per hour (GCH) reaching 13 in Week 10, rebounding from a season low of 9 in Week 07.
Notably, CTCT is operating at full crane capacity, with new RTG cranes expected to arrive throughout 2025, enhancing future handling capabilities. However, labour negotiations remain a concern, as unions have rejected Transnet’s latest wage offer.
The difference between inspected and exported volumes (7.87 million cartons) highlights stock buildup, mainly due to port delays. Of these, 3.27 million cartons remain in cold stores, and 4.6 million cartons are loaded but awaiting vessel departure.
Global Competition and Market Trends
Globally, Chile and Peru are showing substantial export growth, impacting market dynamics. By Week 09, Chile exported 47.20 million cartons, up 11%, while Peru shipped 142.60 million cartons, a 33% increase. Both countries focus heavily on white and red seedless varieties, increasing competition, particularly in the EU and USA.
In Europe, Peruvian volumes surged (+44%) early in the season, causing an overlap with South Africa’s peak export weeks. This increase is attributed to drought-induced early harvests in Peru and diverted shipments originally bound for the US.
Planning and Market Outlook
Despite delays, SATI’s Prescriptive Logistics Model shows that planned and actual export volumes are aligned, reflecting effective industry planning. However, due to CTCT wind delays, 500 fewer containers were exported in Weeks 06–10, and average time to market increased by 7 days.
Overall, South Africa’s table grape industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability amid logistical hurdles and global competition. With key regions surpassing production targets and export volumes trending positively, the outlook remains strong, provided logistical challenges are managed effectively.