W51 Grape Update: Peru Sees Favorable Prices Despite Challenges, Genetic Breakthroughs in the US, and Uzbek Grapes Debut in the US Market

Despite Challenges, Peruvian Agro-Exporters See Favorable Prices for Grapes

In 2023, Peruvian grape agro-exporters navigated challenges by adjusting strategies to environmental conditions, including timing harvests for optimal market entry. Currently mid-campaign, grapes peaked earlier, commanding favorable prices with reduced overall supply. Meanwhile, blueberries faced a delayed peak, with 39% less volume than the previous campaign, resulting in improved prices. In response to uncertainties, exporters explored new markets, with blueberries successfully entering destinations like Taiwan and Malta, showcasing their adaptability in dynamic market scenarios.

USDA Halts Chilean Grape Proposal Amid Concerns Over Pest Risks

California table grape industry leaders express relief as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) pauses regulatory work on a Chilean proposal aiming to ease fumigation requirements for grapes entering the United States (US). Intended to reduce dependence on methyl bromide, the system's approach is contested by domestic growers who fear it could introduce pests threatening their crops. The president of the California Table Grape Commission emphasized the potential risk of devastating infestations. However, importers support the Chilean proposal, highlighting the ongoing grape season in Chile. The debate underscores the complex balance between trade facilitation and safeguarding domestic agriculture.

Uzbek’s "Kelin Barmok" Grapes Make Successful Debut in US Market

Uzbekistan makes strides in the US fresh grape market as the "Kelin Barmok" variety receives a positive reception. The trial batch of one ton, priced at USD 8.99 per kilogram (kg), was sold out within two days at NetCost supermarket in New York. Following this success, the Uzbek company Sherakhun from the Altyaryk district secured a contract to supply 250 tons to the American market, emphasizing compliance with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards. The partnership extends to E.L.A. Superior Produce Inc., which plans to invest in post-harvest processing facilities in the Fergana region, indicating a promising venture in the US fresh grape sector.

Chile and Peru Collaborate in Global Grape Convention to Address Industry Transformations and Challenges

The global grape industry has faced challenges like climate shifts, the pandemic, and new varieties. This has prompted a collaboration between Chile and Peru, leading producers and exporters. Hosted by the Fruits of Chile Table Grape Committee and the Association of Table Grape Producers of Peru, the first Global Grape Convention on August 8, 2024, aims to share crucial market insights and foster collaboration. The convention will unite key retailers and importers to address shared challenges and navigate the evolving landscape of the global grape market, emphasizing joint solutions for the industry's sustainability and resilience.

US Unlocks Potential for Climate-Resilient Varieties with Breakthrough in Grape Genetics

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, led an international effort to decode and catalog the genetic diversity of nine wild North American grape species. Published in Genome Biology, the research provides insights that could aid grape breeding, especially in addressing challenges like climate change, saline conditions, and drought. This work establishes a crucial foundation for advancing grape breeding by identifying key genes responsible for important traits. The study's comprehensive pangenome, a complete genetic blueprint of wild grape species, enables the mapping of genetic diversity and identification of traits valuable for breeders.

Delayed Start Impacts on South Africa's Table Grape Exports

As of W48, South Africa's table grape exports saw a 20% decline, totaling 27,500 metric tons (mt), attributed to a delayed start in the current season. The estimated production for the 2023/24 season is 73 million cartons, a 12% increase compared to the previous season. The top varieties for export include Prime Seedless, Early Sweet, and Tawny Seedless. In Peru the 2023/24 table grape production is expected to reach 1.18 billion cartons, with 57 million cartons packaged by W48, comprising predominantly white seedless grapes.

Chilean Grape Season Commences with Inaugural Shipment to Philadelphia

The season's inaugural shipment of Chilean grapes from Caldera sets sail for Philadelphia. The shipment comprises around 3,600 pallets and is transported aboard the Crown Opal vessel operated by Marval. The grapes in this shipment are exclusively produced in the Copiapó Valley. It is the collaborative effort of over 40 businesses associated with the Copiapó Valley Agricultural Producers and Exporters Association. These producers expect increased exports for the season. They showcase year-round investment and labor-intensive efforts, particularly during the harvest period of November to January.

Reviving South Korea's Grape Industry with 'Shine Muscat' and Global Collaboration

The South Korean grape industry faced challenges after the free trade agreement (FTA) with Chile, resulting in a decline in cultivation area until 2020. Yet, a turnaround happened, and 'Shine Muscat' emerged as a savior for Korean grapes. The Korea Grape Export Association played a crucial role, focusing on quality control and stable exports. Amid intense competition, efforts were made to equalize grape quality and set fair prices. Comprising 28 producer organizations and three export companies, the association established quality standards, implemented systematic management, and prevented imitation by designing a joint label. Despite challenges, grape exports increased annually, showcasing the competitiveness of high-quality and hand-produced Korean grapes.