South Africa’s Stonefruit Sector Rebounds Strongly in 2024/25 Season
South Africa’s stonefruit industry has made a strong recovery in the 2024/25 season, following a difficult previous year marked by weather disruptions and logistical setbacks. Industry body Hortgro has described the latest season as “favourable,” citing increased production volumes and stable consumer demand despite ongoing global economic pressures.
According to Hortgro, the growth in output was driven by new nectarine and plum orchards reaching productive maturity, as well as a sharp rebound in apricot yields after a disappointing 2023/24 season. Overall, the improved performance signals a turning point for an industry that struggled with significant logistical challenges just a year prior.
Volume Increases Across Key Categories
Plums, the country’s leading stonefruit export, led the recovery with a 22% increase in shipments, totaling 13.8 million cartons. Nectarines followed with a 16% rise to 9.4 million cartons, while apricots experienced the most dramatic growth, up 50% to 678,666 cartons. Peaches were the only fruit to record a decline, with exports falling by 4% to 1.6 million cartons.
Jacques du Preez, general manager of trade and markets at Hortgro, highlighted the industry’s resilience. “South African stonefruit has continued to meet the market’s expectations for high-quality, great-tasting produce, supported by a more stable logistical network,” he said.
He added that despite ongoing economic constraints and inflationary pressures faced by consumers globally, demand for fresh fruit has remained consistent.
Logistical Improvements and Future Outlook
While the season was largely successful, it was not without challenges. Wind-related delays were reported in the latter half of the export window, causing some late-season fruit to age in transit. Nonetheless, Du Preez expressed optimism about the overall progress made in port operations.
“A turning point has been reached in the logistical crisis,” he noted, emphasizing continued collaboration between fruit exporters, Transnet, and the Port of Cape Town management. “Although some issues persist, improvements in port efficiency were clearly evident this season.”
Further improvements are anticipated following the delivery of new port equipment, which is currently being assembled and expected to be operational in time for the next season.
Strong Performance in the UK Market
The United Kingdom remains a crucial destination for South African stonefruit, with retailers responding positively to this season’s offerings. Year-on-year, sales of South African nectarines in the UK rose by 18%, while peaches and plums increased by 9% and 16% respectively.
Hortgro aims to not only maintain but grow its market share in UK supermarkets, capitalizing on the positive momentum and reinforcing the reputation of South African fruit as a premium choice for consumers.
In conclusion, with rising volumes, improving logistics, and sustained demand, the 2024/25 season marks a significant step forward for South Africa’s stonefruit sector—setting the stage for continued growth in the years ahead.
