South Africa opens new export route with first table grape shipment to the Philippines

The South African Department of Agriculture has announced the successful arrival of the first official shipment of South African table grapes to the Philippines, marking the start of direct trade between the two markets.

Market access for South African grapes was granted in 2025 following several years of technical negotiations and regulatory cooperation between the two governments and industry stakeholders. The inaugural shipment is described as the opening of a new export corridor and a step towards expanding agricultural trade in Southeast Asia.

The Philippines is considered a promising destination for suppliers. The country imported about 74,000 tonnes of table grapes in 2024, placing it among the world’s top importers of the fruit and highlighting long-term demand potential.

South Africa’s table grape sector continues to grow, with exports reaching 76.6 million cartons so far in the 2025/26 season. Authorities view expansion into markets such as the Philippines as part of a broader strategy to diversify export destinations and reduce reliance on traditional trading partners.

source: gov.za

photo: satgi.co.za