*All cartons expressed as 4.5 kg equivalent
The South African table grape industry expects 2024/2025 season volumes inspected for export to increase by approximately 1% in comparison to the actual inspected volumes of the 2023/2024 season. This figure represents a 6% increase on five-year average volumes, positioning South Africa well to supply global markets with sufficient quality product.
A national crop estimate of 76.4 million cartons is anticipated, with the upper limit expected at approximately 78.7 million cartons and the lower limit expected at approximately 74.1 million cartons.
Table 1: First Crop Estimate for 2024/25 season (million 4.5 kg equivalent cartons).
Region | 5-year Average | 2023/24 Actual | 2024/25 Estimate |
Northern Provinces | 6.6 | 6.0 | 5.8 |
Orange River | 20.3 | 24.2 | 24.4 |
Olifants River | 3.7 | 3.9 | 4.3 |
Berg River | 18.6 | 18.5 | 18.7 |
Hex River | 22.9 | 23.2 | 23.2 |
NATIONAL | 72.0 | 75.8 | 76.4 |
The Northern Provinces marginal decrease of 3% can be attributed to an 8% decrease in the total area planted. The Berg and Hex River Regions’ anticipated volumes are expected to remain very closely aligned with five-year averages.
Cold temperatures were experienced during the past winter season, which is a positive indicator for a quality crop. The rain during winter increased dam levels favourably which supports sufficient water availability for a normal season.
South African produced table grapes remain aligned to global market preferences, enabling a supply of desired cultivars that satisfy consumer tastes. SATI’s latest vine census suggests a continued increase in white seedless cultivars, indicating South Africa’s alignment with global market needs.
Producers remain focused on quality with the aim of supplying markets with product in an optimal condition. The development of a predictive logistics model commissioned by SATI will facilitate this outcome by factoring in data across the table grape value chain to forecast the most optimal logistics solution.
Industry stakeholders remain committed to maintaining South Africa’s position as the preferred country of origin for retailers around the globe. The first crop estimate represents a reasonable deduction based on multiple factors. Figures may be revised as required.
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ISSUED BY SATI
Enquiries:
Mr Jacques Ferreira
Commercial Industry Affairs Manager
+2721 863 0366
About SATI
SATI is the unified South African Table Grape Industry Association. All table grape producers are required to register with SATI, which is mandated by law as the industry’s official levy administrator. The levy is required to fund and facilitate market access and development, research and technology, information provision, transformation, and training. SATI is dedicated to operating a partnership that strives to maintain South Africa’s position as the preferred country of origin for retailers around the world. Contact: info@satgi.co.za