South African fruit exporters are navigating a complex landscape of successes and challenges.
The grape harvest is surpassing predictions but exports have dropped by 10%, and the pome fruit and stonefruit sectors are taking legal action against the shipping authority, Transnet, to recoup losses caused by port disruptions.
Citrus growers, preparing for April shipments, remain hopeful for the resolution of these issues.
Also read: Transnet to be called to committee amid Port of Cape Town crisis
According to Fruitnet, all major fruit export sectors reported improved yields over the previous year. However, operational issues at Cape Town’s port have primarily impacted grape and stonefruit exports.
Despite a 17% increase in grape packing this season, exports have dropped 10% compared to last year.
Also read:
Boost for South African exports as China reduces import duties on rooibos
Picture: Wren Meinberg / Unsplash