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

The industry expects a 12% increase in volumes inspected for export compared to the actual inspected volumes of the 2022-23 season.

The ability to respond to the changes in consumer trends and preferences in northern markets led the sector’s success, with varietal change to seedless grapes and patented cultivars playing an important role. 

Table grapes have long been a favorite fruit in China and consumers are eager to sample new varieties in novel shapes and colors that are sweeter and crisper than ever before.

The main reason for a further decrease in the national crop estimate is ascribed to lower yields packed in the Hex River Region to date, as well as lower yields expected for remaining cultivars in the region.

A total of 77,7 million cartons were inspected and passed for export, according to a recently published SATI report.

In the 2021-22 table grape season, countries in the Southern Hemisphere achieved a new export record of 1.5 million tons, an increase of 0.3 million tons in a decade.

South Africa's table grape industry body also said that the increased supply of Peruvian and Chilean grapes remains a "threat" to the country's exports.

The 2021-22 season has came to a close with a slightly higher production level, but marred with issues and the association remains concerned for the future of the industry.

For much of the season until recently, exports from the country were running well behind the previous season, despite a much higher intake volume.