For much of the season until recently, exports from the country were running well behind the previous season, despite a much higher intake volume.

South African exports have finally caught up with last year's levels, following several months of shipments being significantly lower year-on-year despite higher intake volumes.

The Peruvian table grape industry is forecast to export a record volume of fruit in the upcoming season, with the first estimate pegging shipments at 62.5 million boxes.

The South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) said the new appointee would early in the new year take over the reins from Willem Bestbier, who’s retirement as CEO was announced in May 2021

Over the last 10 years, the table grape industry has shown great dynamism, especially in the Southern Hemisphere, with numerous changes taking place.

Southern Hemisphere table grape varieties have expanded over the last ten years and are expected to continue to grow in popularity, leaving the older varieties behind.

In addition, if forecasts are realized, this year could also mark the first time Peru surpasses Chile in production, the USDA report said.

Producers in the region expect to resume packing towards the end of the week and the weather outlook over the next 10 days is favorable, according to an industry body.