A Sweet Boost for Agriculture and Labour…
By Advent Shoko
South Africa’s agricultural sector is smiling again, and for good reason. The Department of Agriculture has officially announced a major win in the South Africa table grapes export market, with fresh table grapes now cleared for shipment to the Republic of Korea. This opens a new chapter for exporters and growers alike.
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen (MP and Democratic Alliance leader) expressed his excitement, saying:
“I am pleased to announce that South Africa has gained market access for the export of fresh table grapes to the Republic of Korea.”
South Africa’s success comes at a time when Southern African agriculture is in flux. Once a regional powerhouse, Zimbabwe faces challenges in rebuilding its export capacity, highlighting the importance of stable policies, market access, and investment in the sector. Interestingly, many of the workers on South Africa’s table grape farms are foreign nationals, largely from Zimbabwe, who moved south seeking opportunities amid economic challenges at home. Their contribution has been vital in sustaining South Africa’s export boom, underscoring the interconnectedness of Southern African economies.
The journey to this milestone has been long, more than 20 years in the making. Persistent negotiations between South African and South Korean technical teams finally bore fruit with a field verification visit in February 2025. By 23 January 2026, South Korea officially cleared the market, meaning producers can start shipping once the first consignments are ready.
This new market is more than a commercial win. It strengthens South Africa’s export portfolio, provides fresh opportunities for foreign exchange earnings, creates employment, and drives growth in a vital sector of the economy.
South Africa already ranks among the top five global table grape exporters, with around 55% of grapes destined for the European Union and 20% for the United Kingdom. The 2025/26 season is shaping up nicely, with an estimated 79,4 million 4,5 kg cartons projected for export, a small but promising increase of 0,6% over last year.
To meet South Korea’s strict import requirements, exporters must comply with phytosanitary and food safety regulations, implement good agricultural practices, and register production units and packhouses with the Department of Agriculture. Measures like orchard sanitation and integrated pest management are essential to ensure quarantine pests are eliminated before export.
For growers and exporters, the new market is more than a commercial opportunity, it’s a stamp of quality for South African grapes on the global stage. As consignments start rolling, this sweet expansion is set to boost both pockets and prestige for the country’s table grape industry.
Grapes are eaten fresh, dried as raisins, or turned into juice and wine. They’re also used in jams, sauces, salads, and desserts. Even the seeds and skins have value, making oils, supplements, and skincare products. Grapes are truly versatile, offering something for both the kitchen and beyond.
Leave a Reply