Africa
Fresh produce industry news and analysis from Africa.
Tru-Cape plants historic apple tree marking 364 years
South Africa’s apple industry has marked a historic milestone with the planting of only the fourth known Witte Wijnappel tree in the country
Compagnie Fruitière company drives surge in Cameroon banana exports
Industry figures show shipments reached nearly 24,000 tonnes in March, up from 19,585 tonnes the previous year
South Africa and China amend citrus export protocol
The amended protocol introduces additional phytosanitary pest risk mitigation treatment options based on scientific research
Logistics the challenge for Kenya’s expanding avocado sector
Kenya continues to set new avocado production records due to expansion and better productivity, but logistical issues are holding back exports
Egypt acts to limit impact of Gulf disruptions
In response to logistical and cost pressures from the war in the Middle East, Egyptian authorities and citrus exporters are implementing strategic measures to maintain trade
Hortgro launches South African plum promotion in US
April sweepstake offers participants a chance to win a gift card while showcasing the country’s plum quality and growing characteristics
First South African citrus forecast points to continued growth
Another record season is on the cards for South African citrus exporters despite the current turmoil across the world
Kissabel kicks off Southern Hemisphere campaign after record European season
Sales and consumer communications activities are already underway in several countries
Egypt shows promise as regional hub
Egypt’s strategic location has seen the country become an important link for fresh produce between the Mediterranean and the crisis-hit Gulf
South African citrus industry warns of fuel crisis threat
CGA calls for immediate action to counter fuel shortages and potential diesel price increases of up to 60 per cent
Compagnie Fruitière grows share of Cameroon banana export deal
Strong performances from CDBM and CDC offset slight decline at PHP, as Central African nation increases shipments to foreign markets
CH Robinson profits rise despite revenue fall amid AI investment
Robinson Fresh owner secures bigger profit thanks to continued restructuring, but warns of uncertainty ahead
New table grape market breakthrough hailed by South African government
Agriculture minister says arrival of first South African grapes in the Philippines opens up a whole new trade corridor
South African citrus faces mounting pressures from Middle East conflict
The industry is facing mounting pressures from shipping disruptions, rising costs, and constrained demand in an important market
First South African table grapes arrive in Philippines
The country’s table grape industry has confirmed that South Africa has added another export market in south-east Asia to its portfolio
Tevel secures funding for flying robot harvesters
Israel-based agritech company raises US$18m in Series C funding as it works to address labour shortages in fruit supply chains
Asiafruit Fresh Produce India edition out now
Special event issue unpacks key outcomes of India’s new trade agreements, Fresh Focus South African Table Grapes details industry’s push into Asia, plus features on apples and pears, citrus and avocados
Is the UK grape market heading from feast to famine?
Analysis from UK fruit importer Richard Hochfeld predicts a switch from a demand-driven to a supply-driven market in the UK around week 16
South African apple sector poised for growth despite challenges
Despite Middle East conflict, supply chain disruption and rising costs, South Africa’s apple and pear industry is optimistic about the future
South Africa grapples with Middle East impact
Shipping surcharges soar as exporters struggle to redirect fruit with specifications tailored specifically for Middle Eastern consumers
Berry business faces up to new challenges as growth continues
Investment in varieties, segmentation, marketing and technology will help build more profitable berry business, delegates heard at Fruitnet Berry Congress
The real reasons behind the rise of blueberries
Fruitnet’s Mike Knowles speaks exclusively to Cort Brazelton, CEO of Fall Creek, about the product’s recent impressive growth
Oscar Gold kiwifruit season underway in South Africa
France’s Primland says season looks ‘very promising’, as company highlights importance of grower partnerships
Flash Gala apple campaign reaches over 100mn people
South African premium apple brand has significantly expanded its global reach through a digital-first marketing strategy
South African stonefruit gains foothold in Chinese market
The country has achieved its first successful sales in China, with sugar plums and interspecific varieties welcomed by the market
South Africa announces rail and logistics reform plans
The South African government has announced sweeping transport reforms – but will they make a difference?
Iran conflict continues to disrupt South African fruit shipments
Around 90 per cent of country’s fruit exports to Middle East by sea have been blocked by the crisis, forcing suppliers to divert cargo
AVA Dalicia strawberries to launch in UK by end of year
Scottish berry breeder hoping for high demand when Mediterranean variety opens for UK sales in 2026/27 following strong performance this season
NCP to appeal High Court judgment on Nadorcott
Group to fight on after court ruled Asda had not infringed plant breeders’ rights with sale of Tang Gold mandarins
High court decision on mandarins could have wider implications
UK judge’s decision to dismiss Nador Cott Protection’s case could mean retailers continue to sell Tang Gold variety
‘Resilience is about more than just multiple origins’
Wealmoor CEO Avnish Malde tells Fred Searle about the grower-importer’s rich history, his journey into fresh produce, and why supply resilience is in the firm’s DNA
Risky business in the Gulf hits produce trade
The Gulf faces the possibility of fruit shortages, as vessels remain stranded at sea and new routes are sought, with few willing to take the risk
South African fruit stranded as Middle East problems mount
South African fruit exporters are grappling with mounting losses as vessels carrying stonefruit and table grapes remain stranded in the Gulf
‘Some fruit supply chains may no longer be viable’
Reefer shipping expert and former Maersk Line executive Thomas Eskesen explains what conflict in the Middle East means for the fresh produce business
‘Customer focus key to growing avocado category’
Fred Searle speaks to Wim Destoop, global chief customer officer of Westfalia Fruit, about the avo supplier’s customer-led marketing strategy, the potential of the Gem variety, and the growing importance of supply diversification
Claus Larner champions DP World Atlas service
Claus Larner, vice-president of DP World Atlas, discusses the new dedicated shipping solution between Morocco, the UK, and Europe