Horticulture
The South African Table Grape Industry Association (SATI) is expected to release its 2023/24 table grape crop estimate next week. Due to the extensive rainfall and flooding that took place recently, the table grape crop estimate could most likely be revised downwards from the initial prediction. The South African stone fruit exporting season is also set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2023. After an excellent winter with good cold units and full ponds, the stone fruit industry is optimistic about the 2023/24 season and it is expecting a good harvest. The stone fruit outlook is still largely positive. This is despite some frost, sleet, and hail damage that took place in limited areas two to three weeks ago, and the floods that recently affected most production areas. The recent flooding will also result in the Western Cape’s citrus season concluding earlier than usual. Currently, late season soft citrus and Valencia oranges are yet to be picked.