1. Weekly News

Bolivia

Bolivia’s Grape Harvest Thrives as Growers Seek Support for Expansion

Grape producers in Bolivia’s Cercado province are experiencing a strong harvest this year, driven by favorable weather and diverse grape varieties, including Reglot, Italia, Moscatel, and Tannat. While production remains strong, growers are urging government support to expand cultivation areas and enhance irrigation infrastructure, particularly through the San Jacinto project. Cercado’s harvest supplies fresh fruit markets nationwide and wineries in Tarija, the heart of Bolivia’s wine industry. To celebrate the successful season, a grape fair in Santa Ana La Vieja will showcase fresh grapes and locally produced wines.

Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Expands Table Grape Production for Export

The Dominican Republic is advancing in table grape production, with its first commercial harvest expected for Apr-25 and a test shipment planned for the United States (US). This follows a government initiative launched four years ago to help farmers grow high-quality table grapes, inspired by Peru’s success in the industry. Test plantations in Baní and San Juan have yielded promising results, leading to 50 hectares (ha) now under cultivation. With a main production season from March to July and the ability to grow grapes year-round, the country aims to reduce its USD 30 million annual grape imports and expand exports to the US during peak market prices.

Canada

Canada Proposes Lower Tebuconazole Limits on Grapes

Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has proposed reducing the maximum residue limit (MRL) for tebuconazole on grapes from 5 parts per million (ppm) to 0.1 ppm, citing potential human health risks from dietary exposure. If implemented, this change could significantly impact grape imports, particularly from the US, where the current tolerance is 6 ppm. Given Canada’s heavy reliance on imports due to minimal domestic production, the proposed limit may disrupt trade, especially as Canada remains the largest market for US grapes, accounting for 30% of US grape exports in marketing year (MY) 2023/24. Stakeholders can submit feedback on the proposal until April 13, 2025.

Indonesia

Year-Round Grape Cultivation Thrives in Indonesia’s East Java

Grape cultivation in Tegalsiwalan Village, Probolinggo Regency, East Java, has been thriving since 2018. The village has also developed into an educational site showcasing 100 grape varieties. The vineyard produces an average of 250 kilograms (kg) of grapes year-round on a 6x12-meter (m) plot, utilizing an ultraviolet plastic roof system to protect plants from excessive humidity during the rainy season.

Nigeria

Kaduna State Strengthens Support for Grape Farmers

Nigeria's Kaduna State is strengthening its commitment to grape farming, with the Kudan Local Government Area (LGA) accounting for 85% of the country's grape production. The state government provides support through seedling distribution, mechanization, training, and infrastructure development to boost yields and expand the grape value chain. Leveraging its favorable climate and soil conditions, Kaduna aims to enhance production and position Nigeria among Africa's leading grape producers. Increased investment in the industry is expected to generate employment opportunities and drive economic growth, reinforcing the industry's significance in the state's agricultural landscape.

South Africa

South African Table Grape Exports Start Strong

South Africa’s table grape export season is progressing well, supported by favorable harvesting conditions and efficient logistics. The national crop forecast remains at 76.4 million cartons. By W5, 79% of shipments were directed to the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK). Exports to North America reached 11%, highlighting the region’s growing importance. However, shipments to Asia have declined due to rising competition from other grape-producing regions. By W4, 47.2 million cartons had been inspected, and 34.64 million cartons were shipped, which is 14% more than last season. Improved port logistics have enabled earlier arrivals in primary markets. This has enhanced fruit quality, particularly in the UK and EU where demand remains strong for red and white seedless varieties.

Uruguay

Uruguay’s Grape Harvest Boosts Supply and Lowers Moscatel Prices

Uruguay’s ongoing grape harvest has resulted in abundant supply, putting downward pressure on prices for the red Moscatel variety. This dual-purpose grape, used for fresh consumption and winemaking, is prompting some producers to sell part of their crop to offset harvest costs. The country anticipates a total grape harvest of 95 to 100 million kg this season, consistent with the typical range over the past decade, except for occasional fluctuations caused by extreme weather conditions.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Grape Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Grape Pricing Important Exporters (W6 2024 to W6 2025)

Chile

Chile's grape prices fell by 16.84% week-on-week (WoW) to USD 0.79/kg in W6, marking a 20.20% month-on-month (MoM) decrease due to the continued effects of an oversupplied market following peak harvest weeks. Despite the previous price surge in W5, the increased availability of grapes in local and export markets has led to downward pressure on prices. Additionally, logistical challenges and fluctuating demand in key markets like the US and Europe have contributed to the price decline. However, year-on-year (YoY) prices surged by 27.42% due to a more balanced market this season compared to last year, when adverse weather conditions and supply chain disruptions affected production and export volumes. The continued implementation of the Systems Approach and improved fruit quality have also supported higher YoY prices.

Peru

In W6, grape prices in Peru increased slightly by 1.52% WoW to USD 0.67/kg due to a marginal improvement in market conditions as some exporters adjusted their pricing strategies to stabilize sales. Additionally, a slight easing of logistical disruptions at the Port of Callao allowed for more efficient shipments, helping to alleviate some of the downward pressure from the previous weeks. However, prices dropped significantly by 25.56% MoM and 32.32% YoY due to the continued peak harvest period, which has kept supply levels high. The abundance of Sweet Globe and Red Globe varieties has intensified competition among exporters, further pushing prices down. Ongoing logistical challenges, including container shortages, have also contributed to price volatility, affecting market stability despite steady demand for premium-quality grapes.

South Africa

Grape prices in South Africa surged by 33.06% WoW to USD 1.65/kg in W6, with a 22.22% YoY increase due to strong export demand, particularly from the EU and the UK, which accounted for 79% of shipments so far in 2025. Improved port logistics have facilitated faster arrivals in key markets, enhancing fruit quality and boosting buyer confidence, particularly for red and white seedless varieties. Additionally, steady market absorption in North America has contributed to the upward price trend.

India

In India, grape prices declined by 1.56% WoW to USD 0.63/kg in W6, showing a 30% MoM and a 12.5% YoY decrease due to the continued influx of fresh supplies from the ongoing harvest season. The peak production phase, which typically occurs from January to March in key regions like Nashik, has led to a high market supply, intensifying downward pressure on prices. Additionally, increased competition among domestic traders and exporters has further contributed to the price decline. Despite strong export demand, logistical challenges such as container shortages and port congestion, along with fluctuating international market conditions driven by variable EU import demand and shifting buyer preferences, have limited price support, leading to the overall downward trend.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Maximize Market Value for Red Moscatel Grapes

Grape producers should explore diversifying sales channels to optimize revenue from the abundant red Moscatel supply. By targeting both fresh consumption and winemaking markets, producers can balance pricing pressures and offset harvest costs. Establishing direct partnerships with wineries and leveraging promotional efforts in fresh fruit markets can enhance demand and stabilize returns despite price fluctuations.

Expand Market Reach for Kaduna Grapes

Grape producers in Kaduna should capitalize on the region’s growing industry by strengthening supply chain connections with domestic and regional buyers. By promoting high-quality local grapes to fresh fruit markets and wineries, producers can enhance demand and attract investment. Establishing processing facilities for juice and dried grapes can further expand market opportunities and boost profitability.

Strengthen Presence in High-Demand Markets

Table grape exporters should strengthen their market position by optimizing supply timing and ensuring quality consistency. Expanding promotional efforts in key growth markets can help capture rising demand, while targeted marketing and strategic partnerships can support competitiveness in regions facing increased competition.

Sources: Tridge, Daily Trust, Diariohuarpe, Elobservador., Elperiodico, Freshfruitportal, Fruitnet, Portalfruticola, USDA