US table grape imports threatened by Panama Canal restrictions

The drought is affecting the Panama Canal's reservoir system, and the number of ships authorized to pass through daily is severely reduced. This situation could affect shipments of fresh fruit and vegetables to the US East Coast, both in terms of volume and quality, particularly for table grapes.

 

According to the USDA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the country imports just over 700,000 tons of table grapes a year. The main supplier countries are Mexico, Peru and Chile, which together account for 98% of total imports. Mexican exports arrive overland via Arizona and Texas, but Chilean and Peruvian exports arrive at U.S. East Coast ports via the Panama Canal.

 

The U.S. imports nearly 270,000 tons of table grapes from Chile, with 75% of shipments arriving in East Coast ports; and nearly 230,000 tons of table grapes from Peru, with 85% of shipments arriving in East Coast ports. The Port of Philadelphia is the main destination port for these 2 exporting countries, accounting for over 90% of their East Coast shipments.

Restrictions on the Panama Canal could therefore have an impact on shipments. Some professionals are exploring alternative routes, such as directing ships to ports on the US West Coast, or bypassing South America via Cape Horn. These alternative routes entail longer transport times, which could have an impact on fruit quality and therefore on sales. 

 

In the United States, the key months for imports from Chile and Peru are from December to April.

source : apps.fas.usda.gov