The USDA expect the apple harvest in the current season (2012/2013; sales 2013) to be a little bigger than in both the previous seasons. It is expected that the export will become somewhat bigger also. Granny Smith is the most important variety in South Africa, but during the last few years more and more other varieties, such as Gala, Pink Lady and others, have been planted. Of the total planting of Granny Smith two thirds is 25 years or older.
In the 16th position on the world list South Africa belongs to the mid-large producers of apples. As an exporter the country is a large one with a place in the top-10. As a country the selling season runs from January. South Africa is longer on the market than other Southern Hemisphere countries. The main point of the export to Europe is in the months of April to July.
Actually the main point of the supply of South African apples has changed to countries outside of the EU since 2009. The United Kingdom is still by far the most important customer, but not as much as in 2008 still goes to that country. During the last year the export to the United Kingdom has increased somewhat to 95,000 tons. At a distance Malaysia is second buyer, then Benin and the Arabian Emirates to follow. The Netherlands are fifth on the list, with a level of 15 to 20,000 tons annually at present. In 2012 16,300 tons. During the top years 2003 and 2004 this was more than 30,000 tons. Hardly any South African apples go to Belgium. Ten years ago this was still quantities of 20 to 30,000 tons.