South African Table Grape Exports to North America Surge Despite Diplomatic and Trade Tensions

(3 Minutes Read)

Despite persistent diplomatic strains between South Africa and the United States, exports of South African table grapes to the U.S. and Canada surged by 25% during the 2024/2025 season, totalling approximately 7.4 million cartons.

According to the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI), global demand for South African grapes remained robust, driven by the country’s reputation for consistent supply and premium quality. The European Union and the United Kingdom remained the dominant markets, accounting for 58% and 18% of total exports, respectively. However, notable growth was also seen in other regions, including North America.

SATI CEO Mecia Petersen expressed optimism about the rising U.S. exports but emphasised that the industry is carefully monitoring the evolving tariff situation. Concerns have been raised over a proposed 31% U.S. import tariff on South African grapes, which industry stakeholders fear could significantly disrupt trade, threaten thousands of jobs, and erode competitiveness.

As previously reported by IOL, U.S. President Donald Trump recently introduced a 10% blanket tariff on all imports, along with specific reciprocal tariffs targeting certain countries, including a proposed 30% duty on South African goods. These higher tariffs have been temporarily suspended for 90 days for most nations, excluding China, which now faces a 145% levy.

“The industry is encouraged by growing exports to the USA, and we are closely monitoring developments regarding potential new tariffs that may impact the sector,” Petersen noted.

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South Africa has been supplying fresh grapes to the U.S. for over 20 years, with export volumes increasing by an average of 19% annually over the past five seasons. In the latest season, shipments to the U.S. accounted for roughly 3% of total exports, equating to around 2.2 million 4.5-kg cartons, or nearly 9,878 tonnes.