With harvest estimates unchanged, stats show 90 percent completion against SATI’s season forecast and confirm consistent performance from the country's export sector.

Unlike China and Türkiye, the country experienced stable weather and favorable drying conditions, but that was not enough to offset mildew pressure and hail damage.

The South African Table Grape Industry reports a slower export pace, driven by increased inspections, adverse weather in Cape Town, and strong commercial rivals in the Southern Hemisphere.

The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) attributes this season's growth to favorable conditions across all five production regions and ongoing improvements in logistics and port operations.

South Africa has been exporting fresh table grapes to the United States for over two decades, with an average annual growth rate of 19% over the last five years.

Joylene Van Wyk, the Media Liaison Officer for the country's Ministry of Agriculture, told Freshfruitportal.com that the table grape industry plays a significant role in the SA economy.

Denene Erasmus, marketing development & communications manager at SATI told Freshfruitportal.com that all indications show a normal season ahead and that South Africa remains well positioned to supply the market with quality grapes.

The industry estimates an output of 76.4 million cartons, with the upper limit expected at approximately 78.7 million cartons and the lower limit expected at approximately 74.1 million cartons.  

This transaction will reportedly help U.S. retailers keep produce prices stable for consumers during the off-season when commodity prices rise 35%.

Volume to date is up 18% year-on-year. In all, South Africa expects to export 75.8 million cartons this season.