Export estimate in 12.5kg cartons
"We have exported 30% more Williams compared to last year. What is also making it a good season is that from all the Southern Hemisphere countries South Africa has the most favourable exchange rate just now," explains du Preez. "As a result of the demand in Europe there are less volumes going to the Middle and Far East, this may change if the European market changes but while the demand is so high we will continue to supply."
Meanwhile the last Williams have been shipped and Packams and Forelles are now on the way.
It is estimated that 4.8% more pears will be exported this season, a total of almost 15 million cartons. So far (up to week 11), 3.85m boxes have been shipped to the EU, 24% more than last year. The UK has seen an increase of 40% to 572,888 cartons, while the Far East has received 42% less, 404 thousand cartons.
Less apples have been shipped so far this season, but du Preez explains that is more likely due to pears taking priority when shipping. The season also started slightly later than usual. "The figures look extreme especially to the UK but it is early days for the apple season."
The varieties being shipped just now are Galas and the Golden Delicious will follow. Northern Hemisphere apple stocks are also down but only by 15-20%.
Estimates show that 2.2% more apples will be exported in 2013 a total of over 29 million cartons. So far less has been exported to the UK, only half of last years volume, just over 300,000, while almost double that of last season has gone to the EU, almost 152 thousand cartons. The Far East has 19% less at close to 700 thousand cartons.
As well as the traditional markets other destinations are becoming more popular for South African fruit. "West Africa is becoming important after years of working on deals is paying off," according to du Preez. "The cost of shipping is similar to higher but the risks are greater. The fruit demand a very good price here, equal to returns back to farm achieved on European markets."
On the subject of the recent increase in the minimum wage in South Africa, du Preez says this will be felt more next year, especially since this year returns are looking to be reasonable. "We will be looking at improving efficiency throughout the chain, which will include using more skilled labour more efficiently, picking platforms may also be used but mechanisation is difficult in this business."
For more information:
Jacques du Preez
Hortgro
Tel: +27 (82) 8648 149
E-mail: jacques@hortgro.co.za
www.hortgro.co.za