The process to allow Namibian grapes into China during the 2020/21 season is progressing well, with the submission of protocols and agreements to Chinese authorities. A Chinese delegation could visit grape facilities in Namibia before the deal is finalised, but nothing has yet been confirmed.
Table grape vineyards in Namibia
The Chinese market is becoming more important for Southern African grapes as a whole, says Capespan South Africa, which has production units in both countries. Namibia has until now had access to other markets in South East Asia.
“The Namibian Grape Growers Association doesn’t foresee that the market will already be open during the coming season, but is hopeful for the following season,” the company said in a statement. “It will bring a good opportunity not only for Namibia to place their excellent table grape product in a growing market, but also for the Chinese consumer who will be able to enjoy more of Southern Africa’s fruit.”
“Namibian grapes form an important part of our basket and the region produces outstanding quality. All of Capespan’s farms have invested in the planting of new varieties and we’re in a position to supply out clients with worldclass product.”
Capespan South Africa does, however, caution that finalisation of the agreement at a bilateral level between the governments of Namibia and China is a time-consuming process. Finalisation had last year been expected in time for the upcoming grape export season.
The Namibian table grape industry produces 7.5 million 4.5kg equivalent cartons, with strong growth every year and roughly 2,500ha under table grapes in the country. The Namibian Grape Growers Association has said that the industry would initially allocate 5% to 10% of its industry’s volumes to China.
Namibia’s harvest starts in early November until Christmas, when there are few grapes on the global market. Under the desert conditions when it barely ever rains, hail or frost poses no risk, and water supply is constant from the Orange River.
For the entry of South African grapes, China requires pre-cooling for 72 hours and during shipment cold treatment at 0.8°C or below for 20 days in order to control fruit fly.
For more information:
Capespan South Africa
Tel: +27 21 917 2600
Email: info@capespan.co.za
www.capespan.com