The country’s apple exporters have said they are delighted to be back in Thailand, with the first fruit set to be unveiled this week
South African apples are set to return to Thailand this week after an absence of 16 years.
Exporters have said it is their priority to familiarise themselves with the new export protocol agreed between the two countries, to establish a reputation as reliable suppliers.
“The market holds promising potential,” noted Tru-Cape’s CEO Roelf Pienaar. “We are grateful that we have regained market access for apples to Thailand.”
Thai re-entry and expected other gains in the Far East and Southeast Asia could not have come at a better time for the South African apple industry.
Geopolitical turmoil in other parts of the world has forced South Africans to spread their basket of products globally.
The first shipment to Thailand under South Africa’s new access agreement left the country last month containing Joya-branded fruit, and is expected to be introduced in Bangkok this week.
JJ van der Spuy, commercial manager for Thailand at Core Fruit, said it was expected that some 70 per cent of shipments to the country would be Gala types.
“Joya is packed under strict standards from the Cripps Red variety,” he explained. “We will soon follow with full-red Gala types and Royal Beauts.”
The first arrivals are expected to cause quite a stir, with an arrival ceremony planned for Thursday and promotions at the biggest wholesale market in Thailand thereafter.
“We are extremely excited about re-entering Thailand,” said Sachin Khurana, permanent representative in the east for South African industry body, Hortgro.
“We are looking forward to receiving the product and the South African ambassador to Thailand, ambassador Africa, will be there with us for this momentous occasion.
“We are also working on promotions with some of the leading retailers, and that will definitely help us with a strong presence in the region,” he said.
“Sixteen years ago, Tru-Cape exported over 100 containers to Thailand,” Pienaar continued. “However, in our absence, New Zealand has gained a significant market share, presenting strong competition. While our re-entry may start slowly, we are optimistic about gaining momentum.”
Thailand, along with Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and China, represents an important opportunity for expanding the presence of South African apples in the Far East.
“We believe Royal Beaut, Royal Gala, and Flash Gala will be particularly popular in the Thai market,” Pienaar added. ”Additionally, we see strong potential for European varieties like Pink Lady.”
