The pomegranate season is in full swing, Nadir Zaptia from AFF says the season is going well so far despite a "sleepy" European market. "The demand is not as high as last year, which I think is down to the economy,as well as increasing volumes from Chile and Peru. However, the South African fruit is definitely of an increasingly good quality and export volumes are increasing year on year." AFF are also exporting to the Canadian market but face stiff competition from the South American suppliers.
Grapefruit will be shipped in the second week of May and continue for six weeks, Nadir says the market in Europe appears to be stable and the Europeans consider the South African grapefruit to be of the best quality. AFF also exports Grapefruit to Canada and the Far East.
Looking back at the litchi season, which ran from November to January, Nadir describes it as an interesting product where the scenario changes every year. This is due to start dates of the season compared to that of competitor producing countries such as Madagascar. AFF concentrate on fresh litchi due to regulations banning the use of sulphur in certain export markets.
The company is the only exporter of mango by air from South Africa, and delivers to the Rungis market in Paris and specialised importers in The Netherlands.
As for future plans Nadir is looking to build on the Canadian exports where will be increasing exports of mangoes, citrus and kumquats.
The company trades under the brands Royale and Nissy.
For more information:
Nadir Zaptia
Adel Fresh Fruit
Tel: +27 11 45 094
Mob: +27 82 879 4507
nadir@adelfreshfruit.com