As the South African stone is begins, Jacques Du Preeze does not expect a big shift in vo9lumes compared to last year. The official estimates have not yet been released, but he expects that apricot harvests will be more or less the same, while nectarine volumes will be slightly up as will plums, this due to an increase in hectares.South Africa has had a good growing season through the winter and the stone fruit looks good he says. There has been a bit hail damage in the north but this will only affect the very early season fruit.
The most prominent new variety to emerge is the African Delight plum, this mid to late season fruit which has been maturing for the last three to four years and now ready for market.
Jacques expects further growth on sales to the Middle and Far East, but remains positive about the European and UK markets.