South Africa deciduous fruit production recovers

South Africa’s grape production continues to expand, with new production areas reaching their full potential and some wine grape areas being diverted to table grapes. Exports have risen in parallel with this increase in output. The increases come despite the recent drought conditions that affected the 2018/19 crop, according to data from USDA. Apple and pear production levels are not expected to return to normal until the 2019/20 season. Phytosanitary restrictions limit apple exports to the US, with fruit only allowed from areas that are free of Rhagoletis pomonella (apple maggot). However, the US and South Africa are currently negotiating to expand market access. South Africa’s main region for growing deciduous fruit is the Western Cape Province (72%), followed some way back by Northern Cape (17%), Eastern Cape (8%).