South African Apricot Exports Expected to Increase 11% In 2022 Due to High Demand

South African Apricots were able to arrive in EU markets 10 days earlier in 2022 due to the fruit being ready to harvest earlier. This has equated to South African apricots being able to hit the shelves for Christmas sales hence benefiting from better pricing returns in the EU. Quality in terms of aesthetics and Brix have been exceptional thus far and has had a knock on effect of higher demand. Apricot exports are expected to increase 11% in 2022. This is excellent news for growers as the apricots have set the stage for higher demand for South African plums whose exports are also on the rise by 5% when looking at current crop estimates. The good start to the stone fruit season is welcomed as the last few seasons have been tough for South African growers.