Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism
Answered by:
Hon Ivan Meyer
Question Number:
8
Question Body:
Question by Hon Masipa.
Regarding the deciduous fruits estimates for this harvest season:
- What are the final expected (a) harvest and (b) export volumes for this year;
- whether the Port of Cape Town is ready to handle these volumes; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the relevant details and (b) what measures are in place for exporters to remedy problems if they arise?
Answer Body:
- (a) According to the USDA's 2024 forecast, the outlook for the 2024/25 season remains optimistic. Apple production is anticipated to slightly decline to 1.32 million tons, while pear production is expected to grow to 540 000 tons, indicating improved orchard performance and favourable climatic conditions.
(b) The estimated export total for pome fruit, apples and pears, amount to around 856 063 tons for 2024, and the previous season estimates for stone fruits 93 005 tons.
- (a) The monthly export volumes for deciduous fruit through the Port of Cape Town for the years 2023 to 2024: From Jan-Oct 2024, a total of 775 829 tons of deciduous fruit were exported compared to 712 317 tons in 2023 (SARS, 2024). This represents a 9% increase (63 512 tons) in 2024, and it is reasonable to expect that the port of Cape Town will be able to handle increased export volumes, assuming less disruption by the weather.
(b) The deciduous fruit producers have been advised to continue focusing on their competition by ensuring the produce is of excellent quality, the right size and colour in line with what the market demands. Also, improving level efficiencies relates to the cost of production and is important to stay abreast of logistics-related development. The Department continue to present industry views on relevant platforms dealing with logistics and port challenges.
Date:
Friday, November 29, 2024
