[Press Release] SATI Announces First Table Grape Estimate for 2024/25

October 18, 2024

Produce Report

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Oct. 1, 2024 – South African Table Grape Industry expects the 2024/25 season volumes inspected for export to increase by approximately 1% in comparison to the actual inspected volumes for the 2023/24 season. This figure represents a 6% increase on the five-year average volumes, positioning South Africa well to supply global markets with sufficient quality product.

A national crop estimate of 76.4 million cartons (4.5-kilogram equivalent) is anticipated, with the upper expected limit at approximately 78.7 million cartons and the lower expected limit at approximately 74.1 million cartons.

The first crop estimate for the 2024/25 season is presented in the following table (million 4.5-kilogram equivalent cartons):

Region	Five-year average	2023/24 actual	2024/25 estimate
Northern Provinces	6.6	6.0	5.8
Orange River	20.3	24.2	24.4
Olifants River	3.7	3.9	4.3
Berg River	18.6	18.5	18.7
Hex River	22.9	23.2	23.2
NATIONAL	72.0	75.8	76.4

The Northern Provinces’ marginal decrease of 3% can be attributed to an 8% decrease in the total area planted. The anticipated volumes for the Berg River and Hex River regions are expected to remain very closely aligned with the five-year averages.

Cold temperatures were experienced during the past winter season, which is a positive indicator for a quality crop. The rain during winter increased dam levels favorably, which supports sufficient water availability for a normal season.

South African table grapes remain aligned to global market preferences, enabling a supply of desired cultivars that satisfy consumer tastes. SATI’s latest vine census suggests a continued increase in white seedless cultivars, indicating South Africa’s alignment with global market needs.

Producers remain focused on quality with the aim of supplying markets with product in an optimal condition. The development of a predictive logistics model commissioned by SATI will facilitate this outcome by factoring in data across the table grape value chain to forecast the most optimal logistics solution.

Industry stakeholders remain committed to maintaining South Africa’s position as the preferred country of origin for retailers around the globe. The first crop estimate represents a reasonable deduction based on multiple factors. Figures may be revised as required.

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