SATI STATISTICS OF TABLE GRAPES IN SOUTH AFRICA 2024

Logistical constraints experienced at Cape Town’s Container Terminal (CTCT) this season included a significant shortage of RTGs during peak grape season. Due to replacements and repairs, 17 RTGs were available in October 2023, compared to 28 RTGs available in February 2024. Challenges experienced at the Cape Town Multipurpose Terminal (CTMPT) related to

multiple crane breakdowns at the start of the season. To mitigate logistical challenges experienced, industry implemented various measures. Improved communication between Transnet and industry was achieved via a daily war room, which facilitated information exchange, resource planning and the ability to adapt plans quickly when required. To alleviate pressure at CTCT and CTMPT, alternative solutions were implemented. A total of 10.6% of grape exports (about 2,200 FEU’s) were diverted via Gqeberha and 9.7% of grape volumes (equal to about 2,000 FEU’s) were exported via conventional vessels. Thus, this season 20,3% of total grape volumes were diverted from CTCT and CTMPT. This year, far less wind was recorded during peak grape season which helped facilitate exports. CTCT recorded 105 hours of weather delays in February 2024 compared to 254 hours recorded in February 2023. Several macro-economic trends contributed to a positive market environment in the UK & EU for SA table grape exports. Vessel diversions from the Suez Canal caused disruptions in global trade, putting pressure on global logistic chains. South Africa’s market development initiatives continued in Eastern markets. The China Market Development Campaign, co-funded by the Western Cape Depart ment of Agriculture, was executed for a fourth conse cutive season and this year promotions were expanded to Vietnam. South African grapes received positive feedback from consumers in both markets.

As we approach the coming season, industry remains focused on pro active logistics solutions that facilitate South Africa supplying the market with quality table grapes. SATI commissioned the development of a pre scriptive logistics model, aimed primarily at reducing stock levels during peak table grape export weeks. The model utilises data to create potential scenarios, enabling industry to see results and make decisions accordingly. This will facilitate developing alternative logistics solutions well in advance. Thank you to all stakeholders who are participating in the project and have collaborated in various ways including providing data, insights and information. Implementation will remain

Southern Hemisphere (SH) trends included Peru having a challenging season due to extreme weather conditions, and export volumes decreasing by 12% to 114 million cartons. This contributed to favourable market conditions for other SH producers, including South Africa, in the USA & Canada. Chilean table grape exports increased by 7% to 117 million cartons, following a declining trend over the past four seasons. This increase is partly due to an increase in new generation varieties coming into full production. South African producers remain focused on strict quality control from vineyard management to packing and export, to meet rigorous quality standards. SATI remains committed to the well-being of producers and their commercial practices. A key priority remains to ensure that market access is preserved within current markets, whilst market access to developing markets is pursued. Together with industry stakeholders we will continue working to maintain South Africa’s position as a preferred exporter. a collaborative effort, in the interest of maintaining South Africa’s position as a preferred supplier to global markets.

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SATI STATISTICS 2024