South Africa exports a number of fruits. In addition to large volumes of oranges, South Africa also exports a lot of grapes and lemons. South African fruits are an important import product for the Guangzhou Berda Fruit Co., Ltd.
Manager Li of Berda Fruit recently talked about current market conditions for South African import fruit.
South African lemons
South African lemons
"The product quality of South African grapes is slightly lower than in previous years, and their export volume also declined." This is the last phase of the sales season for South African grapes. The season usually ends in late May. The supply volume of South African grapes is therefore very small."
South African grapes
South African grapes
Manager Li discussed some possibilities for South African grapes: "This year the Peruvian grapes entered the market earlier than in the previous years, and their supply volume was larger than before. At the same time, there are also grapes from Chile and Australia. South African grapes face strong competition. Their competitive strength declined this year. We hope that South African vineyards can cultivate grapes that enter the market slightly earlier, so that they take advantage of the golden sales season around Chinese Spring Festival [1 February, 2022]. When South African grapes are not planted earlier, and they do not enter the market earlier, then they miss the commercial opportunities around Spring Festival."
South African grapes
As for lemons, production areas from the north of South Africa have already begun supplying the market with them. The production areas in the south are still harvesting their lemons. Recent strikes delayed the harvest activities.
"Lemons from the south of South Africa will not enter the Chinese market before July. The product quality of the lemons that are currently arriving is less than ideal. With the exception of some major brands, most lemons have product quality issues, such as green juice, soft fruit flesh, or frostbite. The annual export volume of South African lemons to the Chinese market is not that big. South Africa primarily targets the Middle East and Korea. Improving the product quality requires an effort from the entire industry. Refrigerated transport technology needs to improve, and market attitudes towards lemon juice colors need to change. We need a better balance," said manager Li.
South African packing facility
South African packing facility
Berda Fruit have their own packing facility in South Africa, as well as their own lemon orchards. The packing facility is nearing completion and will soon be open for business. The facility is expected to start operating in June.
For more information:
Dean Zhang
Guangzhou Berda Fruit Co., Ltd.
Tel.: +86 159 0204 0737
E-mail: dean@berdafruit.com
Website: www.berdafruit.com