Namibia expects the same grape harvest

Namibia has started its grape export season, with the first shipments of this year's harvest from Southern Africa heading to international markets. Driven by favorable weather conditions and the introduction of new grape varieties, Namibia expects a robust export season, aiming for a volume comparable to last year's 10.5 million cartons. The harvest of early varieties is in full swing, with a focus on the Early Sweet variety during the initial packaging phase. It is notable that Namibian growers are working with Sun World, a fruit breeder, to breed and commercialize new grape varieties. Among them is the Sugrathirtyfive, branded as AutumnCrisp, known for its worldwide popularity. Another variety tested is Sugrafiftythree, an early red seedless grape launched under the Ruby Rush brand. The Arra breeding program is also poised to make significant progress in Namibia this season. TopFruit, a cultivar management company that markets Arra varieties in Southern Africa, expressed ...