Grapes over gripes: SA's table grapes exports to US soar despite diplomatic drama
The South African Table Grape Industry broke into the significant Chinese market through the launch of its inaugural China table grapes promotional campaign at the Jiangnonghui Fruit Wholesale market in Guangzhou on Friday.
Image: Ian Landsberg/Independent Newspapers
Despite ongoing diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the United States, exports of South African table grapes to the US and Canada rose by 25% in the 2024/2025 season, reaching a combined total of 7.4 million cartons.
According to the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), demand for South African grapes remained strong globally due to the industry's reputation for reliable, high-quality produce.
The European Union and the United Kingdom received 58% and 18% of total exports respectively, while other markets including North America showed growth compared to the previous season.
Mecia Petersen, CEO of SATI, said the industry was encouraged by the growing exports to the US but noted they were closely monitoring potential new tariffs that could impact the sector.
IOL previously reported that South African table grape producers have raised concerns over a proposed 31% US tariff, which could severely damage exports, threaten thousands of jobs, and undermine the industry's competitiveness.
Last month, US President Donald Trump announced a 10% tariff on all imports to the US, along with additional reciprocal tariffs for several countries, including a 30% tariff on South African goods. However, he later paused these higher tariffs for 90 days for most countries, except China, which faced a 145% tariff.
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'The industry is encouraged by growing exports to the USA, and we are closely monitoring developments regarding potential new tariffs that may impact the sector,' Petersen said.
South Africa has been exporting fresh grapes to the US for over two decades, with export volumes growing at an average rate of 19% per year over the last five years.
During the 2024/2025 season, South African table grape exports to the US accounted for approximately 3% of total exports, equating to about 2.2 million 4.5-kg cartons, or roughly 9,878 tonnes.
'Volumes to this market have grown exponentially over the past five seasons, and SATI believes there is room for further growth,' Petersen added.
'Industry engagements conducted in 2024 and 2025 indicated that U.S.based stakeholders have an appetite for increasing volumes of high-quality grapes sourced from South Africa.'
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business
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