Australia has reported its second-largest table grape season on record, according to Rabobank's Table Grape Update 2025. The report found that production reached over 230,000 metric tons in 2024/25, up 20% from the previous year, driven by higher yields and younger vineyards reaching maturity.
RaboResearch analyst Pia Piggott said domestic consumption rose by 11%, while exports hit a five-year high of 148,300 tons. "Exports of Australian table grapes to China grew by 36%, to 53,000 metric tons – although this remains nine per cent below the averages of the late 2010s," she said. Other key destinations showing growth included South Korea, the Philippines, and New Zealand.
© Rabo Bank
RaboResearch analyst Pia Piggott
Piggott added that the outlook for 2025/26 is positive as new plantings reach full production and a neutral El Niño forecast supports stable yields. "Lower shipping costs, a favourable market window in China, and firm demand across Asia could lead to improved returns for Australian growers," she said.
Global market developments
The Rabobank report noted major shifts in global table grape trade, with Peru overtaking Chile as the world's largest exporter and China emerging as a growing competitor.
RaboResearch senior analyst Gonzalo Salinas said China's exports are projected to exceed 100 million boxes by the end of the decade. "This development opens up new avenues for market diversification and strategic growth, particularly in Southeast Asia," he said.
Peru's export growth helped push global table grape shipments to a record 4.6 million tons in 2024/25. "Peru's success highlights the evolving competitiveness of the global industry and the potential for strategic repositioning among leading exporters," Salinas said.
He added that China's expanding exports are reshaping supply and demand across Southeast Asia. "Driven by a rising middle class and changing consumer preferences, China's influence is reshaping the global table grape market. As China becomes more self-sufficient, it relies less on imports, further strengthening its position."
North America and Europe
In North America, U.S. exports are stabilising, supported by higher demand in Mexico and consistent retail growth. Mexico's industry remains steady, benefiting from both domestic and U.S. markets.
South American exports rebounded to 1.3 million tons in 2024/25 after earlier weather disruptions, while the European Union and the United States remain the largest importers, accounting for 43% of global trade. Imports in these markets have risen 2% annually over the past decade, with U.S. per capita consumption expected to reach nine pounds (4.1 kilograms) in 2025/26.
As China reduces imports, Southeast Asia is emerging as an alternative growth region. "The region's growing demand presents untapped opportunities for exporters seeking new markets," Salinas said.
For more information:
Denise Shaw
Rabo Bank
Tel: +61 (0) 2 8115 2744
Email: [email protected]
www.rabobank.com.au
