South Africa’s agricultural sector has achieved a significant milestone with the approval to export fresh table grapes to the Philippines. This breakthrough follows nearly a decade of negotiations, marking an important step in expanding the country’s fruit export markets.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen confirmed that the Philippine market was officially opened on 26 February 2025, allowing South African producers to begin exporting table grapes to this new destination.
This expansion is crucial for South Africa’s position as a leading global exporter of table grapes, helping to reduce the industry’s reliance on traditional markets. Currently, 55% of South Africa’s table grape exports are sent to the European Union (EU), while 20% go to the United Kingdom (UK). Diversifying into the growing Asian market is expected to strengthen the country’s export resilience and create new commercial opportunities for growers and exporters.
Economic and Employment Boost for the Agricultural Sector
The table grape industry plays a vital role in South Africa’s economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and rural economic development. According to industry data, 86,870 seasonal workers and nearly 15,000 permanent employees are supported by the table grape sector.
Steenhuisen highlighted that opening new markets like the Philippines will drive production growth, boost export volumes, and increase the agricultural sector’s contribution to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP). The agriculture sector was a key driver behind South Africa’s 0.6% economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2024, with improved performance in fruits, field crops, and livestock.
The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), which represents growers and exporters, welcomed the announcement as a major achievement for the industry. SATI CEO Mecia Petersen said, “The Philippines presents exciting new opportunities for South African table grape producers. This market access is the result of years of hard work and collaboration between government and the industry.”
Strict Compliance Required for Successful Exports
Although the opening of the Philippine market presents exciting prospects, South African exporters must meet strict phytosanitary and food safety standards to ensure sustained access. Steenhuisen emphasized that all production units and packhouses intending to export must register with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (DALRRD) to obtain the necessary compliance codes.
“Producers must follow good agricultural practices, including orchard sanitation, pest management, and strict adherence to phytosanitary requirements, to ensure that South African grapes meet the Philippines’ import standards,” he said.
With South Africa expected to produce over 76 million cartons of table grapes this season, gaining access to the Philippines will help absorb growing supply and expand the industry’s global reach.
This achievement reflects South Africa’s growing reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality fresh produce and underscores the strategic importance of pursuing new markets to support the ongoing growth and sustainability of the country’s agricultural exports.