As the 2024/25 table grape season approaches, Australian growers have approximately 10,000 hectares under cultivation. The majority, around 8,000 hectares, is located in Victoria, with the remaining area split between Queensland and Western Australia.
"It's still early to make firm predictions about the crop," said Jeff Scott, CEO of the Australian Table Grape Association. "But indications suggest we're heading into a good, stable season, much like last year. We're forecasting national production to reach around 230,000 tonnes, which is consistent with last season's volumes. That's encouraging news, especially after the challenges growers faced during the 2023/24 season."
© Nichola McGregor | FreshPlaza.com
Scott noted that while interest in proprietary (IP) grape varieties surged initially, the pace of new plantings is beginning to slow. "Growers are now replanting traditional export varieties such as Red Globe and Crimson Seedless. These remain our strongest performers in international markets. That said, demand for newer varieties is growing in Japan. Last season, we secured market access for additional varieties, boosting exports to Japan from 3,500 tonnes to 10,000 tonnes. We see strong potential there and hope to maintain or even grow that figure this season."
China continues to be Australia's largest export destination, accounting for 35% of total grape exports. Indonesia follows with 24–25%, while Japan, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam all receive similar volumes.
Export activity is expected to begin in late November to early December from North Queensland, with Sunraysia in Victoria commencing shipments in early January. "If conditions remain favourable, we're aiming to export around 150,000 tonnes this season," Scott added.
For more information:
Jeff Scott
ATGA
Tel: +61 417 122 086
Email: [email protected]
