South African raisin production to surpass 100,000 tonnes in 2025

South Africa is solidifying its role as a significant player in the raisin industry, with its raisin production expected to surpass 100,000 tonnes for the first time in 2025

Producers have substantially increased plantings in recent years, with new hectares coming into full production, new cultivars producing better yields and growers reporting healthy vines. This season’s output is forecast to be 150% bigger than a decade ago, as South Africa moves from a middle-ranking international supplier to join heavyweight producers such as Turkey, Iran and the US.

South Africa represents around 50% all of southern hemisphere raisin production, giving its producers the chance to enter markets where there has been a shortage of supply. Moreover, raisins have also gained popularity in recent years. 

“Due to climate changes and geographical risks, buyers are looking to diversify a bit more, and South Africa is ready as a supplier of top-quality raisins in terms of food safety and best practice,” said chief executive of industry body Raisins S, Ferdie Botha. “That ultimately ensures a happy and safe consumer.”

So far this season, around 4,700 t of South African raisins have been exported to the UK, with the hope that a total of 10,000 t could be reached by the season’s end. On the ground in South Africa, conditions are looking favourable but growers are continuing to be vigilant for signs of frost as the seasons change from winter into spring. After well-documented issues at the ports in the past two years, Raisins SA stresses that situation has improved, with alternative ports now available and providing the opportunity to decrease shipping times. 

"We have made progress as an industry in South Africa, growing volumes in various markets and exposing buyers who do not traditionally buy from us to our exceptional product,” Botha concluded.“We hope that through great client service, exceptional quality and growing volumes, we will become more relevant as a supplier of top-quality product to premium markets.”