As South Africa’s apple and pear season gains momentum, industry experts are optimistic about growth prospects in 2025. With steady increases in exports, favorable climate conditions, and a well-established global market presence, South Africa continues to strengthen its position as a key player in the international fruit trade.
Overview of the 2025 Apple and Pear Season
Pears, primarily grown in the Western Cape, are harvested from February to August, with the bulk of production allocated for export. Apple season starts slightly earlier, commencing in January and reaching peak volumes in June. Both crops play a crucial role in South Africa’s agricultural economy, supporting thousands of jobs and driving foreign revenue.
According to projections from Hortgro, a leading industry body for South Africa’s pome fruit sector, exports are set to increase in 2025. Pear exports are expected to reach 21.1 million cartons, reflecting a 4% increase from the previous year, while apple exports are forecasted to hit 51.3 million cartons, a 5% rise from 2024.
This upward trend is attributed to a combination of factors, including favorable weather conditions, the expansion of newly planted orchards, and the introduction of high-yielding apple varieties. As global demand for high-quality fruit grows, South African producers are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging market opportunities.
Weather and Growing Conditions Driving Production
One of the main contributors to the expected rise in pear exports is the climate. The 2025 growing season has benefited from cooler nighttime temperatures, which improve fruit development and enhance coloration, making the pears more attractive to buyers in export markets.
Similarly, apple production is thriving due to the expansion of orchards established in recent years, which are now reaching peak productivity. Improved weather conditions and the adoption of high-yielding apple cultivars are also playing a pivotal role in boosting output.
According to Jacques du Preez, Hortgro’s Trade and Markets General Manager, the season initially experienced some delays but has since stabilized.
“The 2025 pear and apple harvest and exports started slowly, but we’re in full swing now,” said Du Preez.
While the pear season began about 7 to 14 days later than usual, it appears to be returning to its regular schedule. Growing conditions have been favorable, resulting in excellent fruit quality. “Fruit color is expected to be good, and the fruit is clean and ready, so we expect that packing will also go well,” Du Preez added.
Apples also experienced a slower start, but industry stakeholders anticipate strong export volumes as the season progresses.
“We expect apples passed for export to increase to 51.34 million cartons (+6%) and pears to 21.25 million (+5%). This projection may even be conservative, as growing conditions have been great so far,” Du Preez noted.
Expanding Export Markets and Global Demand
South Africa’s apples and pears continue to be in high demand across multiple international markets. The country’s fruit exports play a crucial role in global food supply chains, particularly as consumers and retailers increasingly prioritize high-quality and sustainably sourced produce.
So far, over 842,000 apples have been shipped, with the majority—83%—going to African markets. The remaining apple exports have primarily been directed to Asia and the Middle East, where demand for South African fruit remains strong.
For pears, export destinations are more diverse. The Middle East is the top market, accounting for 32% of shipments, followed by the European Union at 28%. Russia receives 16% of South African pear exports, while the Far East and Asia take in 10%. North America (United States and Canada) represents 5% of the market, with the United Kingdom at 4% and Africa at 3%.
The shifting landscape of global apple and pear trade presents new opportunities for South African exporters. Du Preez highlighted that European Union apple stocks in January 2025 were down by 5%, while pear stocks were up by 4% compared to the previous year. This fluctuation in supply and demand creates a window of opportunity for South African fruit growers to fill market gaps and secure competitive pricing.
South Africa’s Growing Dominance in the Southern Hemisphere
South Africa has established itself as the largest apple producer in the Southern Hemisphere, surpassing traditional competitors such as Argentina, Chile, and New Zealand.
“South Africa has now firmly established itself as the largest Southern Hemisphere apple producer and the only country on a positive trajectory,” Du Preez stated.
The country is also the second-largest pear producer in the region, with strong potential to claim the top spot in the coming years. Unlike other Southern Hemisphere producers, which are experiencing stagnation or decline, South Africa continues to expand its output.
“We anticipate South Africa will keep this positive trajectory; soon, it may also become the largest pear-producing country in the Southern Hemisphere,” Du Preez added.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the promising outlook, the industry is not without challenges. South African apple and pear producers face hurdles such as logistical constraints, geopolitical uncertainties, profitability pressures, and evolving regulations on agrochemicals.
However, Du Preez remains optimistic. “Although we face multiple challenges in SA, we are not alone. Many Northern and Southern Hemisphere countries face challenges—geopolitics, profitability, the pressure on agrochemicals, etc. Considering the trends (from production, cultivars to logistics to new markets and increased demand from existing ones), the future looks bright for the SA apple and pear industry.”
South Africa’s ability to navigate these challenges while continuing to grow its market share highlights the resilience and innovation within the industry. As production expands, new varieties are introduced, and international demand increases, the country is set to remain a dominant force in the global apple and pear market.
With strong export figures, high-quality produce, and strategic market positioning, South Africa’s apple and pear industry is on track for a successful 2025 season and beyond.