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The South African table grape industry is preparing for an early start to the export season, with the first 2026/2027 crop estimate indicating a stable crop of sufficient volume to meet market demand. The preliminary national crop estimate for 2026/27 of 78,4 million cartons inspected for export, has a lower range of 76,8 million cartons and an upper range of approximately 79,9 million cartons.
Table 1: First crop estimate for 2026/2027 season.
| Region | Five-year average | Actual 2025/26 | Estimate 2026/27 |
| Berg River | 19,2 | 20 | 20,1 |
| Hex River | 23,9 | 24,4 | 24,3 |
| Northern provinces | 6 | 5,9 | 5,7 |
| Olifants River | 3,8 | 4,2 | 4,1 |
| Orange River | 24,6* | 26,8 | 24,2 |
| National | 77,5 | 81,3 | 78,4 |
*2022/23 season figures excluded due to the impact of adverse weather conditions on the Orange River region crop. All cartons are expressed in million, and each carton is equivalent to 4,5 kg.
The estimate remains broadly aligned with the five-year average, supporting South Africa’s ability to provide consistent volumes to international markets. Estimated volumes across the five production regions are also consistent with the regional five-year averages.
Positive start for global demand
“Favourable water availability, which is supported by sufficient dam levels, provides a positive foundation for the season ahead. At the same time, warmer weather conditions have contributed to earlier crop development. Current indications suggest that the season could start approximately ten to 14 days earlier than previous seasons,” said Alwyn Dippenaar, chairperson of the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI).
Following recent rainfall, dam levels in the main regions growing table grapes were, on average, approximately 82% full by late September, compared to 85% at the same time last year. Overall, the estimate reflects continued stabilisation in total table grape hectares planted across the country. Hectares planted decreased marginally by less than 0,5% to 19,434ha in 2026.
“The preliminary estimate indicates that South Africa is well-positioned to deliver a quality crop in sufficient volumes to meet international market requirements,” said Mecia Petersen, chief executive officer of SATI. “SATI will continue to work closely with growers, exporters, logistics providers, ports, and other stakeholders across the value chain to facilitate the efficient movement of fruit throughout the season and ensure that the 2026/27 crop reaches markets consistently during the export window.”
The first crop estimate represents a reasonable deduction based on multiple factors, including prevailing weather conditions and production trends. Figures may be revised, when required, as the season progresses. For more information, contact Conrad Burger, finance and commercial manager at SATI, at 021 863 0366 or send an email to conrad@satgi.co.za. – Media release, SATI
