South Africa's avocado sector is preparing to send its first shipments to three major Asian markets, after years of negotiations and procedures.

In a significant development for the South African avocado industry, the country has gained potential access to the Indian, Chinese, and Japanese markets within a span of eight months. While this access has been years in the making—with South Africa taking approximately 15 years to gain access to Japan, several years to India, and a few more to China—they are now in the final stages of beginning shipments.

Derek Donkin, managing director of the South African Subtropical Growers Association (Subtrop), said they are finalizing details to begin shipping the fruit. The final Chinese inspection is scheduled for mid-June, after which they expect to send the first shipment of avocados. Donkin believes that exports to China will develop gradually, given that it is not currently a major market for avocados, but the growth potential is significant. South Africa also gained access to Japan last December and to India in April of this year, representing a major achievement for the country's avocado industry.

Donkin mentions that avocado volumes for the 2024 season in South Africa are on track to grow by around 7.5%, reaching 20 million 4kg boxes. Despite logistical challenges at South African ports, the industry is working with the government to resolve the issues and ensure timely shipments of the fruit. Competition from Peru in Europe remains a significant factor, but prices are expected to remain stable for larger sizes.

Source: freshplaza.es