Farmers have reported excellent rainfall and cooler temperatures, benefiting fruit development.

The pear season began in early January, with apple harvesting now in full swing. Western Cape growers have enjoyed a cold winter and steady rainfall, fostering strong fruit growth.

“Except for some recent warm days, we’ve had a cool summer, which benefits apple size. In extreme heat, trees stress, leading to smaller fruit,” said Calla du Toit, Tru-Cape’s procurement manager and an apple and pear producer in Witzenberg Valley.

Wind damage has been minimal, and fruit quality remains high. A light sleet in November was the only concern, but no significant harm was reported.

Although the apple season started about a week late, later varieties are expected to compensate. Calla noted that overall production may not be much larger due to lower Fuji, Royal Gala, and Pink Lady yields but remains optimistic about quality.

European and UK buyers have expressed interest in earlier Royal Gala shipments. “Tru-Cape’s Royal Gala offering has expanded significantly, particularly with BigBucks Gala and Flash Gala,” Calla said.

This season marks the first commercial harvest of Cape Blush pears, a promising new variety. According to Calla, Cape Blush has excellent color and size, stores better than Rosemarie, and allows us to reach distant markets.

The variety follows the last Forelle of the previous season, enabling year-round supply to China and Vietnam. Tru-Cape is also marketing Celina pears under the QTee brand for the first time.

Logistics issues have challenged the industry, but improvements are emerging. Roelf Pienaar, Tru-Cape’s managing director, noted progress at Cape Town’s port in December.

“The later fruit export season gave authorities more time to prepare, easing peak-period pressure. Favorable weather also reduced wind-related disruptions,” he said.

While productivity has not dramatically increased, port operations have stabilized. Roelf added that equipment availability and processes have improved, thanks to efforts by Hortgro and other stakeholders.

In another related development, after 16 years, South Africa is resuming apple exports to Thailand following changes in import regulations. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen highlighted the economic significance of the industry.

“Apples are a key export crop, generating foreign exchange and employment. About half of South Africa’s apples are exported,” said Steenhuisen.

A government statement noted that apple exports have grown by 40% over the past decade, with the Far East and Asia now accounting for 35% of shipments.

To meet Thailand’s phytosanitary requirements, South African apples must be free of quarantine pests. Orchards, packhouses, and export facilities must be registered and approved by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD).

Growers must also adhere to strict agricultural practices, including integrated pest management and orchard sanitation measures.