grapes

Exports of table grapes from the Southern Hemisphere are forecast to increase 12 per cent to some 1.4m tonnes during the 2010/11 season, provided there are no weather complications, according to iQonsulting.

Within the region, iQonsulting expects Peru will record the largest growth in volume, with sendings anticipated to rise by 30 per cent against last season on the back of new planted areas entering into commercial production.

The Argentinean and South African table grape crops are also estimated to increase (albeit at a lower rate of growth) to 3 per cent and 6 per cent respectively.

Brazil, meanwhile, should recover some of the export shortfall experienced in 2009/10, according to iQonsulting, with sendings tipped to rise by almost 20 per cent.

However, total volume will not reach traditional average levels due to fertility problems with the Festival (Sugraone) variety.