South African grape industry braces for impact as U.S. tariff comes into force

The South African table grape industry is bracing for losses as a 30% U.S. import tariff on its grapes officially comes into force next month. The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) had warned earlier this year that the tariff would severely weaken its position in the U.S. market, one of its fastest-growing export destinations.

Although the U.S. accounts for only 3% of South Africa’s grape exports, shipments have expanded at a compound annual growth rate of 20% over the past five seasons. In 2024/25, South Africa exported approximately 9,900 tonnes — valued at $20 million — to the U.S. The new tariff, SATI says, makes South African grapes far less competitive, especially against lower-duty exporters like Peru and Chile.

SATI estimates that the retail price of an 8.2 kg box could now reach $44 in the U.S., nearly double the average market rate.

The South African table grape industry contributes over $800 million annually to the national economy and supports around 105,000 jobs. According to SATI, these figures could decline if South Africa continues to face tariff disadvantages in key markets.

SATI urged the South African government to engage in urgent negotiations with the U.S. and reaffirmed its commitment to working with authorities and industry partners to safeguard the resilience and competitiveness of the country's fruit exports.

source: satgi.co.za, frutasdechile.cl

photo: paltrack.co.za