California vineyards experienced a variety of rainfall amounts in early September, leaving growers with radically differing views of table grape damage

"As an industry, we need to review where we are, where we are going, and how to get there. This means looking at exciting technological advances, new varieties, and how to protect company secrets, yet at the same time share best practices," said McClarty.

The figure of $1.92 billion means that imports during the first six months of each year have more than doubled over the last decade.

The 2022 California table grape season is off to a solid start with similar volumes to 2021 expected this year, but high costs, the ongoing shipping crisis and the added challenge of inflation remain a cause for concern.

A Chilean-headquartered law firm is working with exporters and growers to file the lawsuit in a U.S. East Coast court against shipping companies and the Port of Philadelphia.

The North American table grape market is facing a "tricky" transition throughout the end of May and into June with a potential for heavy concentration in early July, according to a multinational fruit supplier.

"The Peruvian's are going to take control of this winter import table grape market."