The South African stone fruit industry expects export volumes for the 2025/26 season to rise by around 5% compared with the previous year. Favourable winter conditions and good blossoming have supported fruit set and overall quality across most production areas.
Weather and production outlook
The season has begun under generally favourable conditions, with no frost, hail, or sleet affecting orchards as in previous years. Although rainfall was below average, irrigation dams are expected to provide an adequate supply for the dry summer months. Early reports suggest that nectarine volumes will return to normal levels, supported by good fruit set and eating quality.
Orchard area and varietal trends
Over the past five years, planted nectarine area has grown by 26%, while apricot area has fallen by 4%, dessert peaches by 18%, and plums by 6%. Investment in higher-yielding nectarine varieties continues to drive orchard renewal and is expected to support future export growth.
Logistics and market access
Progress in logistical performance has been noted, particularly at the Port of Cape Town, although bottlenecks and delays still occur. Infrastructure upgrades and the use of new equipment are expected to improve port efficiency. Coordination among growers, exporters, and logistics service providers will remain essential for maintaining shipment reliability.
South Africa's stone fruit sector has also expanded its export reach. Apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, and fresh prunes have recently gained access to the Chinese market, and exporters are finalising administrative requirements to begin shipments. This new access is expected to diversify export destinations and strengthen market resilience.
© HortGro
Export estimates for 2025/26
Initial projections indicate that apricot exports are estimated at 720,000 cartons of 4.75 kilograms, which is 3% lower than last season's 740,000 cartons. Peach exports are forecast at 1.94 million cartons of 2.5 kilograms, representing a 3% increase from 1.88 million cartons last season. Nectarine exports are expected to rise by 18% to 12.26 million cartons of 2.5 kilograms, supported by favourable growing conditions and the introduction of higher-yielding varieties. Plum exports are projected to increase by 2% to 15.1 million cartons of 5.25 kilograms, compared with 14.9 million cartons last season.
Outlook
The 2025/26 stone fruit season is projected to remain stable, with balanced export volumes and continued grower confidence. The combination of favourable weather, varietal development, and expanding market access points to a steady season, provided logistical and trade challenges are effectively managed.
© HortGroFor more information:
HortGro
Tel: +27 (0) 21 870 2900
Email: [email protected]
www.hortgro.co.za
