South Africa projects a stable avocado season and seeks to expand exports to Asia

The first shipments are expected to arrive in Europe during weeks 10/11, with an estimated volume of 84,000 tons. While Europe and the UK remain key markets, the industry is aiming for gradual growth in China and India.

The first South African avocados will arrive in Europe in weeks 10/11, with an estimated volume of 84,000 tons, similar to that of 2023. Despite some recent rains that could delay the harvest, growers have fruit ready and expect to quickly get back on track. South Africa currently has 20,800 hectares of commercial avocado orchards, with an annual expansion of 800 hectares.

While Europe and the UK remain its main markets, South Africa is looking to expand in Asia, with expectations of increasing shipments to China and India after small exports in 2023. In India, it competes with Tanzania, which pays no tariffs, while in China it faces dominance from Peru, although with a slight advantage in delivery times. The strategy is to grow gradually and take advantage of market opportunities.

At the local level, domestic consumption continues to rise, with sales equivalent to those of exports. Furthermore, improvements in port infrastructure have optimized maritime logistics, generating positive expectations for avocado shipments, following the strong performance of grape exports this year.

Source: freshplaza.es