South African deciduous fruit sector body Hortgro has forecast export volume rises for nectarines, peaches and plums this summer season, but apricots will be down slightly.

In a release, the group said plum shipments would likely be up 3% at 11. 8 million cartons, nectarine exports would be 4% higher at 3.9 million, and peach figures would jump 5% to more than two million.

"Initial expectations are looking promising for the new SA stone fruit season," the group said.

"Good winter and spring conditions contributed to overall good quality, size and sugar levels. Possible water shortages in certain production areas is a cause of concern for later varieties and water and irrigation management will be crucial to ensure that the crop's potential is realised.

"There has been a steady increase in the area planted to nectarines, peaches and plums over the past number of years which contributes materially to the increased volumes."

Hortgro highlighted the land area dedicated to apricots had been relatively stable, but a lighter fruit set in the Klein Karoo area - which accounts for 65% of fresh apricot plantings - means export volume is estimated to be down 3% at 783,991 cartons.

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