Southern Africa’s table grape industry is approaching the new export season with optimism, buoyed by favorable weather and the momentum of a record-breaking 2023/24 campaign. Growers across Namibia and South Africa say conditions in the vineyards look promising, even as they brace for more challenging market dynamics compared to last year.
In Namibia, where harvest typically kicks off the region’s export window, industry observers suggest the new season could start earlier than usual. “Some sources in Namibia say the season could be seven to ten days earlier than last year,” said international table grape expert Andre Vermaak. “However, from experience we know that a bit of cold weather can delay things, so it is too early to make firm predictions.”
Namibia enjoyed its best-ever export season last year, supported by strong international demand. But Vermaak cautioned that such favorable market conditions may not be replicated this year. “We will have to wait and see what happens,” he added.
Across the Orange River, South African growers are also looking ahead with confidence. Last season delivered a record crop, but production is now expected to stabilize after a slight reduction in vineyard plantings.
The South African Table Grape Industry (Sati) is preparing to release its first outlook for the 2024/25 season in the coming weeks. For now, industry sources point to steady vineyard development and favorable weather as reasons for optimism.
Port logistics, long a point of frustration for exporters, may also improve this year. New handling equipment at Cape Town’s container terminal is expected to boost efficiency, though wind-related disruptions remain a recurring challenge. “The latest improvement in handling equipment is expected to make a huge difference,” a source noted.
Harvesting in South Africa’s earliest region, Limpopo, is forecast to begin in late October to early November, starting with Early Sweet followed by Arra Honey Pop. According to TopFruit viticulturist Morné Bester, vineyards in Limpopo are showing encouraging fertility levels and benefited from favorable flowering weather.
“While Limpopo often faces weather-related challenges, growers remain optimistic and are building on the success of previous seasons,” Bester said.
TopFruit’s cultivar specialist Andre Agenbag echoed this confidence, pointing to strong prospects across both Namibia and South Africa. “Early Arra varieties in Aussenkehr are expected to be harvested by the beginning of November, with the Northern Cape following shortly thereafter,” he said.
Across the region, even budbreak and healthy vine performance suggest good yields and strong quality ahead. While global market conditions remain uncertain, growers are entering the season with renewed confidence that Southern Africa will again deliver reliable volumes of high-quality grapes to international buyers.
