South Africa’s apple and pear export crops are expected to be slightly higher this year despite predictions that unfavourable climatic conditions will make things difficult for growers.
“A challenging pomefruit season is anticipated on the back of extreme heat wave conditions and drought affecting certain production areas such as Ceres, Berg River, Northern Province and Free State,” said Hortgro in its first estimate of the season.
This confirms reports that most of these areas are struggling with water supplies because of the heat and drought experienced in these regions so far this season.
The total apple and pear export crop is estimated at 48.87m cartons which, if it materialises, will be 1 per cent higher than last season. Apples are estimated at 33.88m cartons, which is 3 per cent higher than last year. Pears are expected to reach 14.99m cartons, which will be 2 per cent lower than last year.
Hortgro noted that even in regions with adequate water the heat wave conditions experienced since early December have impacted on fruit growth, and therefore fruit size on the early varieties is expected to be smaller. If current conditions continue the fruit sizes could also affect the late season varieties.
Hortgro added that the industry is hopeful the situation will improve. “In drought affected areas and areas experiencing water shortages a drought management programme has been implemented regarding irrigation practices to mitigate risks and ensure as far as possible that optimal quality is harvested.”
Despite this, the overall expectations for the export crop remain good with apple volumes expected to increase by 3 per cent. The increase is mainly driven by young orchards coming into production.
Pear exports on the other hand are expected to decrease slightly (-2 per cent) due to fruit size on mainly Williams Bon Chretien pears, and limited marketing options for smaller summer pears. The later varieties are expected to be in line with recent years.
