A decline in the volume of exported grapes is predicted in South Africa
South Africa
Wednesday 04 January 2023
FJ
South Africa is expected to export just 71.7 million boxes (4.5 kg) of table grapes for this 2022/23 season (Photo: pitto.co.za).
In South Africa, professionals in the table grape sector predict a decline of around 7.72% in the volume exported for the 2022/23 season.
According to South African media, industry professionals expect only 71.7 million boxes (4.5 kg) exported for the 2022/23 season. Or -7.72% compared to the 77.7 million boxes (4.5 kg) exported during the previous season.
However, this volume for the 2022/23 season remains above the five-year average of 64 million boxes (4.5 kg) exported.
The decrease in volume is mainly attributed to the decrease in the areas devoted to cultivation. Various factors (input costs, transportation costs) have eroded the margin of producers who express concern about current price levels.
Around 76% of grape exports are destined for the UK and EU markets where consumers are cutting back on spending. The South African sector fears having to turn to other markets such as Asia and the Middle East.
source : farmersweekly.co.za