South Africa forecasts modest rise in stonefruit exports
by Market Insider
Thursday, 27 Oct. 2016
South African fruit growers’ body Hortgro says it is expecting a "normal" stonefruit season with year-on-year rises between 4-6% of export volumes across all categories.
Prospects for the South African stonefruit season are looking good at this stage despite concerns over a cooler spring and prolonged drought conditions; the organization said the start of the harvesting season was similar compared to last year.
Nectarine exports are expected to rise 5% to around 4,2 million cartons (2,5 kg) while peach volumes are set to grow 4% to 2,3 million cartons (2,5 kg) and plum exports are to rise 6% to 11,7 million cartons (5,25 kg). The projected increases for the three categories are due to young orchards coming into production.
Apricot exports are expected to increase by 4% year-on-year to around 730.000 cartons (4,75 kg) which the industry body said was due to good fruit set reported in most production areas. However, the figure is still below the three-year average unlike nectarines, peaches and plums.
Possible water shortages in certain production areas remains a cause for concern with dam levels in Western Cape being at 62% so that water and irrigation management will be crucial to mitigate any potential risks.
Source: Freshfruitportal