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China’s table grape exports reached a record high in 2024, totaling 593.5 thousand metric tons (mt) valued at USD 927.80 million. These numbers reflect year-on-year (YoY) increases of 22.80% and 14.04%, respectively. However, the average export price dropped by 7.14% to USD 1.56 per kilogram (kg). Southeast Asia remained the top destination, with Vietnam and Thailand leading imports due to strong demand and limited local production. Yunnan province played a key role in this growth, benefiting from favorable growing conditions and an advanced supply chain. Enhanced trade agreements, rising production, and off-season availability have further solidified China’s position in global grape markets.
India's 2024/25 grape season remained stable, with favorable weather conditions enhancing quality. Production volumes declined by about 20% from the previous season, leading to an earlier-than-usual end by late March. Driven by a shorter winter and early summer, strong domestic demand has further limited export availability. Prices, which initially dipped in late Jan-25, began rising again in mid-Feb-25 and are expected to continue increasing due to constrained supply. While the arrival of South African grapes in export markets may intensify competition, Indian exporters prioritize quality control and supply chain efficiency to maintain their market position.
Grape cultivation in Chihuahua, Mexico, is expanding as a sustainable alternative to water-intensive crops, requiring only a third of the water for walnut trees. Now ranked eighth in industrial grape production nationwide, the state saw a 34.8% increase in output in 2024, reaching 1.1 thousand tons. The primary varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Shiraz are grown across 21 municipalities, with a demonstration vineyard in Saucillo promoting further expansion. Ongoing investments are shifting the focus from fresh grape production to winemaking, with the state expected to reach 700 hectares (ha) under cultivation, solidifying its role in Mexico’s growing grape industry.
On February 26, 2025, South Africa gained access to the Philippine market for fresh table grapes after a decade of negotiations, marking a significant milestone for the industry. As one of the world's top five table grape exporters, South Africa shipped 63 million 4.5-kg boxes in the 2022/23 season, with the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) accounting for 55% and 20% of exports, respectively. This new market entry is expected to drive production growth, enhance South African farmers' participation in exports, and further strengthen the industry's contribution to gross domestic product (GDP). Exporters must meet stringent phytosanitary and food safety standards, registering with the Department of Agriculture, Agrarian Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) to ensure compliance and market eligibility.
Chilean grape prices dropped by 4.55% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 0.84/kg in W10, with a 7.69% month-on-month (MoM) decrease. The decline is driven by weakening demand in the United States (US) due to market saturation, and strong competition from Peru, South Africa, and India, which has intensified price pressure. However, YoY prices increased by 18.31%, primarily due to reduced production in the previous season caused by adverse climatic conditions and a decrease in the area planted with table grapes. These factors led to lower supply levels last year, resulting in higher prices than the current season.
Peru's grape prices fell slightly by 1.64% WoW to USD 0.60/kg in W10, representing a 7.69% MoM decrease and a 40.59% YoY drop. The price decline is due to increased harvest volumes from Ica coinciding with ongoing grape festivals, which have boosted local supply. Additionally, strong competition in export markets, particularly from countries like Chile and South Africa, and stable production levels have kept prices under pressure despite steady demand.
While South Africa's recent access to the Philippine market has contributed to increased demand for its grapes, the significant 24.53% WoW and 8.20% MoM price surge to USD 1.32/kg in W10 is also influenced by heightened demand from established markets. Notably, the EU and the UK remain major importers, accounting for approximately 55% and 20% of South Africa's table grape exports, respectively. Additionally, reduced availability from earlier peak-season volumes and logistical improvements have supported price recovery. However, there is a 2.94% YoY decrease due to lingering supply pressures and heightened competition in key export destinations, which continue to weigh on overall market dynamics.
In India, grape prices increased by 18.75% WoW to USD 0.76/kg in W10, with a 15.15% MoM rise and a 16.92% YoY increase due to tightening supply as the season nears an early conclusion, reducing market availability. Strong domestic demand, fueled by rising temperatures and limited stock, has further driven price increases. Additionally, exporters focusing on quality over volume have contributed to the upward trend, despite competition from South African grapes in international markets.
Indian grape exporters should strengthen partnerships with reliable logistics providers to ensure timely shipments and maintain fruit quality in competitive export markets. Investing in pre-cooling and advanced packaging solutions can extend shelf life and enhance market appeal. Additionally, diversifying export destinations beyond traditional buyers can help secure stable demand and mitigate risks from supply fluctuations.
South African table grape exporters should establish direct partnerships with Philippine importers and retailers to secure long-term supply agreements. Investing in compliance with phytosanitary standards and cold chain logistics will ensure smooth market entry and maintain fruit quality. Additionally, targeted marketing campaigns highlighting South Africa’s premium grape varieties can enhance brand recognition and drive demand in the Philippine market.
Sources: Tridge, DALRRD, Fresh Fruit Portal, Freshplaza, Producereport, Oem, South African Government, Xinhua
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