The arrival of the first consignment of South African apples in Thailand following a 16-year absence, has been celebrated at the Talaad Thai Market
South African apples made their return to Thailand after a 16-year market absence this weekend.
At a ceremony at Talaad Thai Market, the South African ambassador to Thailand, Darkey Ephraim Africa, officially welcomed the first shipment, marking a significant milestone in agricultural trade relations between the two nations.
Ambassador Africa ceremonially opened the first container of apples, while local vendors at Thailand’s largest fresh produce market received the first boxes directly from this inaugural shipment.
This symbolised the renewed trade partnership, according to Sachin Khurana, Thailand representative for South African Apples.
“The shipment marks not just the return of South African apples to Thailand, but the beginning of a new chapter in our agricultural trade relationship,” said Jacques du Preez, general manager of trade and markets at Hortgro.
“Thai consumers can now enjoy our world-class apples, grown in ideal conditions with sustainable practices, delivering the exceptional crispness, juiciness and flavour profiles South African fruit is known for internationally.”
The market reopening followed intensive collaboration between Thai and South African agricultural authorities to establish updated phytosanitary protocols, ensuring the highest standards of food safety while facilitating trade.
“This market reopening represents years of diplomatic and technical cooperation,” noted Khurana. “We’re especially grateful to our Thai import partners including Flora Capital, who have shown tremendous enthusiasm in bringing these premium products to market.
”We’re committed to supporting both our importers and retail partners with comprehensive marketing campaigns and in-store promotions.
”Thai consumers deserve access to the finest global produce, and these premium apple varieties, including Royal Gala, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, and Joya, will bring new flavours and options to the market,” he outlined.
Khurana said the reintroduction was expected to significantly diversify Thailand’s imported fruit offerings while providing consumers with year-round access to premium apples, as South Africa’s counter-seasonal production complemented Northern Hemisphere growing cycles.
Industry experts have anticipated strong growth potential in the Thai market, where fruit consumption continues to rise amid increasing health consciousness among consumers.
Local retailers had already expressed strong interest in featuring the newly available South African apples, he added, with several planning special promotional displays and sampling events to introduce Thai consumers to the premium varieties in the coming weeks.
