Rain in the late regions of South Africa led to a 92% decrease in year on year national inspection volumes for week 10 with a total of 302 536 cartons (4,5 kg equivalent). This is 92% less than week 10 of the previous season, mainly due to rain in both the Berg River and Hex River regions during that week.
Up to week 10, 62.4 million cartons (4,5 kg equivalent) were inspected, which is 14% lower than the same time last year.
Export volumes until week 10 total 53.9 million cartons (4,5 kg equivalent). National inspection volumes currently appear on track to reach the estimate total of 66.3 million cartons (4,5 kg equivalent).
The Olifants River region has now finished packing for the season.
The Berg River Region is still packing mostly Sugranineteen (Scarlotta Seedless®) and Crimson Seedless. The Hex River Region is still packing Crimson Seedless, Allison and Autumncrisp® . Load shedding and delays in the Cape Town port remain a challenge.
Regional Updates
By the end of week 10, the Berg River Region packed a total of 18.5 million cartons (4,5 kg equivalent), surpassing its latest estimate by 3%. It is expected that the region’s total for the season should come in slightly below 19 million cartons (4,5 kg equivalent). Quality has been good overall; with some areas receiving more rain than others.
Packing in the Hex River Region is expected to conclude in the next two weeks. Some cultivars have been impacted by rain and measures are being taken to ensure quality. Recently mild weather has been experienced, which is good for colouring and sugar accumulation.
The region has packed less than initially expected. Current figures indicate close to 19.0 million cartons inspected for export (4,5 kg equivalent). Producers remain focused on quality.
Logistics Update - Presented by Antoinette van Heerden, Logistical Affairs Manager at FPEF
Challenges in the port relating to various factors including wind, resource and equipment availability continue. Industry is concerned about the current state of operations.
"We remain committed to the work required to make improvements and will continue our efforts with Transnet to reach tangible solutions. The focus of our continued efforts is on people (resources), processes and availability of equipment. Some alternative solutions may come at a cost."
For more information:
AJ Griesel
South African Table Grape Industry
Tel: +27 21 863 0366
Email: info@satgi.co.za
www.satgi.co.za