South Africa Secures Market Access to Export Fresh Table Grapes to the Philippines
In a significant development for South Africa’s agricultural sector, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen announced that the country has secured market access to export fresh table grapes to the Philippines. This milestone is expected to bolster economic growth and strengthen South Africa’s position as a leading global exporter of table grapes.
The market access was officially granted on February 26, 2025, allowing South African producers to begin exporting table grapes to the Philippines. Steenhuisen revealed that negotiations for this access began on January 20, 2015, and spanned nearly a decade. “This achievement is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of all stakeholders involved,” he said.
Economic Significance of Table Grapes
South Africa ranks among the top five global exporters of table grapes, a sector that plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy. The industry contributes significantly to foreign exchange earnings, job creation, and agricultural development. According to the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), approximately 55% of the country’s table grape exports are destined for the European Union (EU), while 20% are shipped to the United Kingdom (UK).
During the 2022/23 season, South Africa exported a record 63 million cartons of table grapes. The industry supports around 86,870 seasonal workers and 14,843 permanent employees, underscoring its importance as a major employer.
Boosting Agricultural Growth and Empowerment
The opening of the Philippines market is expected to advance the Department of Agriculture’s empowerment initiatives, particularly in promoting the participation of black farmers in international export markets. Steenhuisen emphasized that expanding market access will drive increased production, boost exports, and enhance the agricultural sector’s contribution to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“Data from Statistics South Africa indicates that the economy grew by 0.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024, with agriculture being a key driver of this growth. Improved performance in livestock, field crops, and fruits has been instrumental,” the Minister noted.
Compliance with Export Standards
To ensure the successful export of fresh table grapes to the Philippines, South African producers must adhere to strict phytosanitary and food safety standards. These requirements are outlined in the final phytosanitary import conditions for the export of fresh table grapes to the Philippines.
Steenhuisen urged interested exporters, including production units and packhouses, to register with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DALRRD) to obtain the necessary codes: a DALRRD production unit code and a packhouse code.
“Growers of registered production units must implement good agricultural practices, including orchard sanitation and integrated pest management, to eliminate quarantine pests identified by the Philippines during the production period,” he said. “Compliance with these conditions is critical to safeguarding this hard-won market access.”
The Minister also announced that an official notification would be made when the first consignment of table grapes is ready for shipment.
This development marks a new chapter in South Africa’s agricultural export strategy, promising economic benefits and opportunities for growth in the sector.
