W11 Grapes Update: Chilean Grape Production Forecasted to Decline in the 2023/24 Season, Argentina Pursues Innovation in Grape Varieties to Meet Global Demand, and Indian Grape Prices Fluctuate in European Markets

Peruvian Grape Growers Hope to Recover for 2024 Campaign Despite 45% Production Drop in 2023

Peruvian producers are optimistic about the 2024 campaign after adverse weather conditions in 2023, including El Niño and Cyclone Yaku, led to a 45% decrease in grape production. The Peruvian Government is offering economic aid and financial loans to support producers. In 2024, producers focus on growing their biological bacteria using organic matter instead of inorganic fertilizers. Despite challenges, grape growers are hopeful for improved weather and a decent season.

Chilean Grape Production Expected to Decline in 2023/24 Season

According to the Chilean Table Grape Development Research Association (Uvanova), Chilean grape production is expected to decrease to 60 million boxes or fewer this 2023/24 season. The campaign is in full swing, with the most significant shipments starting soon and continuing until mid-Apr-24. The Chilean grape industry has been focusing on changing grape varieties, with more exported licensed varieties expected in 2024 than traditional ones. Crimson remains important for red varieties, while Allison, Sweet Celebration, and Timco are becoming more popular. Green varieties are projected to be Sweet Globe, Autumncrisp, and Arra 15, and they are forecasted to surpass traditional ones.

In addition, black grapes are expected to have substantial volumes in 2024. The 2023/24 season began with a drop in Peruvian volumes and Hurricane Hilary, which damaged grape production in California. While Chile typically exports 50% of its grape production to the US, the campaign is progressing smoothly in Asia. Chilean grapes will be in good supply in the US market throughout Apr-24 and most of May-24.

INTA Developing New Grape Varieties in Argentina to Meet Global Seedless Grape Demand

The Argentine National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) is developing new varieties of fresh grapes to meet the demand for seedless fruit in the global market. The main varieties include white seedless grapes, especially the Superior Seedless variety, and pink grapes with seeds, such as Flame Seedless and Red Globe varieties. These varieties undergo a lengthy interdisciplinary process before being registered. Argentina has a limited grape supply, but local varieties adapted to the Zonda wind and water scarcity have been developed through interdisciplinary work and genetic contributions.

Indian Grape Prices Volatile in European Markets Amid Oversupply and Shipping Challenges

Indian grapes are facing a significant decline in European markets, with prices dropping due to oversupply from India, a prolonged South African grape season, and irregular vessel arrivals. Despite favorable weather conditions in 2024, untimely rains and hailstorms have affected grape-growing regions, leading to a shortage of grape material. The Red Sea crisis has caused export difficulties, with increased freight rates and delays in arrivals. The 40-day transit time to Rotterdam has also affected fruit quality. Grape prices in India have fluctuated throughout the season, initially rising due to a shortage of high-quality grapes but now increasing again.