South African cherry season starts early as Ceres output may fall more than 50%

The decline in production is attributed primarily by the sector to adverse weather conditions during the flowering period. Calla du Toit, Director of Supply for Tru-Cape, said the early varieties flowered within a week of exceptionally high temperatures at the end of August. According to the company's assessment, temperatures may have reduced fruit set by shortening the effective time for pollination. The subsequent drop in temperatures may have caused cold damage to part of the crop.

Despite low production expectations, quality indicators were positive in the first fruits. Tru-Cape reported that the cherries reached a size of up to 30 millimetres and high sugar levels. Having fewer fruit has allowed greater attention to harvesting at optimum ripeness, while the company noted that sufficient labour facilitated this work. In contrast, low volume poses an economic challenge for producers.

Tru-Cape plans to give priority to the local market in its commercial programs due to reduced supply and strong domestic demand in South Africa. The company expects prices to be slightly higher than last season. In exports, it aims to bring the share of about 15% of the previous season closer to 20% this season; however, logistics costs, transport risks and expected profitability will be assessed for each operation.