South African table grape industry forecasts 78.4 million export cartons

The South African table grape industry is preparing for an earlier export season, with the 2026/2027 harvest expected to begin 10 to 14 days sooner than in previous years due to warmer weather conditions.

A preliminary national harvest estimate for the 2026/2027 season places production at approximately 78.4 million inspected export cartons, with a range between 76.8 million and 79.9 million cartons. This figure aligns with the five-year average, suggesting a stable supply capable of meeting international market demand.

Water availability remains a positive factor for the upcoming season, with dam levels in key growing regions averaging around 82% capacity at the end of September. The total planted area has stabilized, showing a marginal decrease of less than 0.5% to 19,434 hectares.