Cold treatment trials move South Africa closer to China for cherries

South Africa’s cherry industry is edging closer to gaining access to China, as growers and exporters complete key technical steps required by Chinese quarantine authorities. The sector has finished a second round of cold treatment trials, following positive results from the first phase, and expects remote video inspections to begin before the end of the year. If timelines hold, the first shipments to China could take place in the 2026/27 season.

Despite strong growth, South Africa remains a small player in global cherry trade. In 2024, the country accounted for just 0.1% of worldwide cherry exports, compared with Chile’s 49% share, according to trade data. Even so, planted area has expanded rapidly, rising from 185 hectares in 2012 to 819 hectares in 2024. Around 40% of trees are not yet in full production, pointing to higher volumes in the coming years.

The Western Cape leads national output, hosting 61% of cherry orchards. South Africa grows nearly 80 cherry varieties, with Royal Hazel, Royal Tioga and Lapins the most common, together accounting for 34% of plantings.

Export activity is already significant. A national grower survey in 2025 showed that 58% of the cherry crop is exported, mainly to the UK (60%), the European Union (18%), and the Middle East (12%). South Africa also benefits from an early shipping window, with exports typically starting around week 41, roughly two weeks ahead of Chile, and peaking between weeks 46 and 52.

At the same time, growers are managing rising phytosanitary risks. Producers are working with the Department of Agriculture to monitor and control Drosophila suzukii, a pest that caused significant losses in blueberries last season. Emergency crop protection products have been registered to support integrated pest management.

Harvesting in northern regions such as Mpumalanga has already concluded, delivering better-than-expected yields. Picking continues in the Free State and Western Cape, where favourable weather conditions point to a larger crop than in 2024/25.

source: frutasdechile.cl, hortgro.co.za

photo: smartcherry.world