South Africa secures access to export table grapes to the Philippines
South Africa’s fresh table grape industry has achieved a major breakthrough, as the country has officially been granted access to export fresh table grapes to the Philippines. Minister John Steenhuisen of the Department of Agriculture confirmed the news, announcing that the Philippine market opened to South African grapes on 26 February 2025.
This milestone marks the successful conclusion of a decade-long negotiation process that began in January 2015. Minister Steenhuisen emphasized the significance of this development for the country’s agricultural sector, noting that producers are already preparing to ship their first consignments.
“South Africa is one of the top five global exporters of table grapes, and the industry is a key contributor to the economy, providing employment and generating significant foreign exchange,” Steenhuisen stated.
Strengthening South Africa’s Global Footprint
According to the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), in the 2022/23 season, 55% of the country’s table grape exports were destined for the European Union, while 20% were sent to the United Kingdom. By the end of the season, the industry had exported 63 million cartons (4.5kg-equivalent) of table grapes.
The new access to the Philippines is expected to further strengthen South Africa’s global market reach. Expanding agricultural export markets not only enhances the industry’s competitiveness but also contributes to increased production, job creation, and the country’s overall economic growth.
A new chapter for South African table grapes
Mecia Petersen, CEO of SATI, welcomed the news, highlighting the opportunities this presents for local farmers and exporters.
“We remain committed to providing high-quality products that meet global market demands. With this new market access, we look forward to building the South African table grape brand in the Philippines,” Petersen said.
As South Africa’s agricultural sector continues to seek new markets and strengthen trade relationships, this development signals an exciting new chapter for the country’s table grape industry. With the first consignments expected to be shipped soon, South Africa is poised to make a lasting impression on the Philippine market.
