Written and reported by Macarena Bravo | Lee esta noticia en Español.
The Mexican table grape industry is gearing up for a new season with a renewed green grape strategy. However, Sergio Lugo, director of Mexico Table Grapes and the Sonora Table Grape Producers Association, told FreshFruitPortal.com that they are seeing a slight harvest delay.
Although the executive said that it is still too early to have a clear estimate, production performance so far has been normal in the high-volume segments, especially for mid-season varieties, which are primarily available between late May and June.
Lugo noted a reduction in acreage for early-season varieties, particularly Flame Seedless (a red cultivar) and Sugraone (a green one). This decrease is part of a deliberate strategy by producers, who have chosen to adjust their varietal mix in response to consumer trends.
The executive explained that green grape consumption has surged, so the focus has shifted toward that segment rather than early red grapes. Sweet Globe and Autumncrisp, the latter showing strong growth in regions like Jalisco, are spearheading the green grape trend.
The industry plans to begin harvesting in early May, Lugo adds.
In the United States, the primary export destination for Mexican grapes, consumption trends strongly favor the green grape segment.
Lugo noted that, according to industry data, the purchase ratio is three bags of green grapes for every one of red grapes. This preference intensifies during the summer break, when per-household fruit consumption increases.
“US consumers are looking for healthy options for children during the holidays, and grapes are practical, appealing, and affordable,” Lugo said.
He also emphasized that packaging plays a key role, as many families wash and portion the fruit into individual servings.
When asked about the main challenges of the season, Lugo cited the lack of chill hours, a condition that has been partially offset by agronomic management. However, he explained that there is concern about the upcoming high temperatures, with forecasts exceeding 104°F in some growing regions.
“We hope these factors do not significantly affect the course of the season,” he said.
Finally, the executive emphasized the importance of the global industry dedicated to producing this fruit and of a shared vision among producing countries.
“It’s not about competing, but about firmly positioning grapes in global markets and promoting their consumption,” he concludes.
*Main image is AI-generated; all other images are referential.
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