“We’ve had good good volumes, but the costs for production were quite high. This was due to reasons like the exchange rates and increased post production costs. However, the quality is very good,” says Ayman Bayoumy of the Egyptian company Fruit Link.
“The market right now is strong, especially with regards to Russia. However, at the beginning of the season there was a lot of competition from India. Indian grapes are very cheap, while the grape sector of India also had a season with increased production. As Indian grapes flooded the European, Asian and Russian markets, profit margins for Egyptian exporters diminished.”
Managing Director Mahmoud Osman added that the Egyptian grape sector is countering the increased competition by focusing on varietal development. “We are currently working with new varieties, such as the dark blue Autumn Royal. Autumn Royal has been received very well on the Russian market, while Asian markets such as Malaysia have shown interest as well. By introducing Autumn Royal, we try to change the flow in the market.”
From July to August, Fruit Link is going to produce Crimson Seedless grapes, which is one of the most common grape varieties in the world. The prospects for the Crimson season are good, as the weather in Egypt is hot. “We expect to be able to fill out all orders for all markets.”
For more information:
Ayman Bayoumy
Fruit Link
Tel: +2 0111 555 4553
Email: ay.bayoumy@fruitlinkco.com
www.fruitlinkco.com