South African fresh produce exporters returned home after a highly successful participation in the Fruit Logistica Berlin international exhibition, held in Germany from 5-7 February 2025. The South African delegation, supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), secured over 200 high-quality trade leads, marking another milestone in the country’s efforts to expand its global footprint in the fresh produce market.
What is Fruit Logistica Berlin?
Fruit Logistica Berlin is the world’s leading trade show for the fresh produce industry. This year’s event attracted more than 2,600 exhibitors from over 90 countries, covering all segments of the fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain. The exhibition provides a premier networking and business platform where industry professionals engage, negotiate deals, and discuss the latest trends and innovations in fresh produce. With a theme of “Fruitful Connections,” the 2025 edition highlighted the importance of fostering partnerships to drive sustainable growth in the industry.
South Africa’s Strong Presence
The South African National Pavilion, established by the dtic, provided a key platform for local exporters to showcase their produce and engage with international buyers. Anton Kruger, Chief Executive Officer of the Fresh Produce Exporters Forum, emphasised the importance of South Africa’s continued presence at Fruit Logistica.
“The exhibition is an essential part of our export strategy. It enables our exporters to gain new trade leads, establish relationships with new clients, and maintain existing contracts. Some exporters reported up to 50 new leads each, which highlights the significance of participating in this event,” said Kruger.
He further noted that the South African Pavilion’s strategic location, consistent with previous years, helped maintain visibility and accessibility for international buyers looking for high-quality fresh produce.
South African Exporters Reap the Benefits
The exhibition proved to be a fruitful endeavour for many South African exporters. Sandeep Valodia, Director of Iris Fresh, confirmed that he had signed deals with three new customers from Mauritius, France, and the Netherlands, in addition to securing several promising leads.
“The exposure and opportunities at Fruit Logistica are unparalleled. The ability to meet face-to-face with potential buyers and showcase our fresh produce ensures that South Africa remains competitive in global markets,” said Valodia.
South Africa’s Role as a Leading Fresh Fruit Exporter
South Africa is the largest exporter of fresh fruit in the Southern Hemisphere, making it critical for the country’s producers and exporters to remain engaged in global trade shows like Fruit Logistica. The country’s fruit industry, valued at approximately R63 billion, depends on strategic networking and relationship-building with global partners to sustain growth and market expansion.
Global Trends and Industry Insights
Apart from securing trade deals, South African exporters also had the opportunity to learn about the latest industry trends and innovations. Fruit Logistica 2025 showcased cutting-edge advancements in agriculture, post-harvest technology, and logistics, all of which are key to improving efficiency and sustainability in fresh produce exports.
The event featured several dedicated forums, including the Fresh Produce Forum, which addressed major industry challenges such as climate change, supply chain resilience, and regulatory shifts. Meanwhile, the Future Lab provided insights into next-generation agricultural technology, helping exporters understand how to future-proof their businesses.
Looking Ahead: The Future of SA Fresh Produce Exports
With the success of Fruit Logistica 2025, South African exporters are poised for another strong year in global trade. The new trade leads and business relationships established in Berlin are expected to translate into increased export volumes and greater market diversification.
As the industry navigates challenges such as rising production costs, shifting consumer demands, and climate-related disruptions, participation in global trade shows remains vital. The knowledge and networks gained at Fruit Logistica will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of South Africa’s fresh produce exports.
South African fruit producers have once again demonstrated their resilience and competitiveness on the global stage, securing not just deals but a sustainable future for the country’s thriving agricultural sector.