South Africa’s (SA) table grape and raisin industry is preparing for a strong 2026 season, with the Orange River Valley expected to account for about 85% of the country’s total production.
The Chairperson of the Orange River Producers’ Association, Gabriël Viljoen, says producers remain optimistic despite ongoing pressure from international markets, particularly the United States (US).
Viljoen says exporters and American buyers have agreed to share the impact of a 30% export tariff imposed by the US. Under the arrangement, US buyers will absorb 15% of the tariff, while SA producers will cover the remaining 15% to keep exports flowing.
“The 30% export tariff to the US is still in place, and we have met with our buyers on that side to share the cost,” Viljoen said. “They will pay 15% and the producers will pay the other 15%, just to keep the door open and the fruit moving to the US.”
He added that the upcoming season is expected to perform well, driven largely by new grape varieties that are already delivering higher yields.
According to Viljoen, producers are anticipating an increase of between two and three million additional boxes, each weighing 4.5 kilograms. This is expected to bring total production for the 2026 season to between 82 and 83 million cartons.
The Orange River Valley, located in SA’s Northern Cape province, remains the backbone of the country’s grape industry and a key contributor to agricultural exports.
–ChannelAfrica–
