SA table grape industry returns to growth trend

The South African Table Grape Industry (Sati) released the first crop estimate for the 2018/2019 season with volumes estimated to be between 63,2 and 70,1 million cartons (4.5 kg equivalent). Good winter rains largely broke the serious drought in the Western Cape and this, in addition to new plantings and new cultivars, brings the South African table grape industry back on track to its organic growth trend over the past four years.

New plantings are of higher yielding cultivars. According to Sati chairman Fanie Naudé, these are all positive signs for the coming season, which will help the SA table grape industry offer the world market its renowned quality, with an even better supply, of the latest varieties.

The early crop from the Northern Province region is expected to produce better than last year. This was the only region with increased volumes in the previous season. The Orange River region follows close behind, harvesting at the start of November, with an expected return to normal crop volumes.

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