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The first official shipment of South African table grapes successfully arrived in the Philippines recently, marking a significant milestone for the industry following the granting of market access last year.
The Philippines ranks among the top 20 global importers of table grapes, with imports estimated at about 74 000 tonnes in 2024, equivalent to roughly 16 million 4,5kg cartons. With a population exceeding 118 million, alongside a growing middle class and increasing urbanisation, the country presents a significant long-term market opportunity.
South Africa’s table grape industry continues to expand, with exports reaching 76,6 million cartons so far in the 2025/26 season. Minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, said South Africa views the Philippines not only as a destination market, but as a long-term partner in food security, trade, and agricultural development.
Engagement paves the way
Steenhuisen welcomed the development, describing it as the culmination of several years of sustained technical engagement between the South African and Philippine governments. He said the shipment reflects close collaboration with industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities, as well as a shared commitment to science-based phytosanitary standards.
“The arrival of this first shipment is more than a commercial transaction; it marks the opening of a new trade corridor between South Africa and the Philippines,” Steenhuisen said. “It demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained co-operation, mutual trust, and a shared ambition to grow our agricultural sectors.”
The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) also confirmed the successful shipment, describing it as an important milestone for the sector. SATI’s chief executive officer, Mecia Petersen, said expanding market access remains a key priority, with Asia identified as a strategic growth region. “The Philippine market presents exciting opportunities for our exporters,” Petersen said.
Government and industry collaboration
The industry expressed its appreciation to the South African ministry of agriculture, the National Department of Agriculture, and the South African Embassy in the Philippines for their role in facilitating the shipment.
SATI further acknowledged the contribution of trade partners, including Philippine importer Kingson Chan, and the South African exporter, SA Fruit Promoters (Safpro), in making the shipment possible. The contribution of former Philippine ambassador to South Africa, Noralyn Jubaira Baja, was also highlighted as instrumental in strengthening trade relations. – NDA and SATI press releases, reworked by Plaas Media
