Thailand opens its doors to South African apples

South African apple growers and exporters are overjoyed that Thailand has again opened its doors to South African apple exports. Since market access was lost many years ago, it has been a long wait and a lot of behind-the-scenes work, but exporters are eager to refresh relationships with Thai importers. South Africa had excellent trading relationships with Thailand before the market closed.

In March this year, two Thai inspectors visited packhouses, cooling facilities, and orchards in South Africa’s three major apple production areas.

The 2024 SA apple export season is nearing its end, and the industry is already looking ahead to the next harvest. South African apple exports have generally increased by 40% in the previous 10 years. The bulk of this growth has been directed away from traditional markets (UK and Europe) to the Far East and Asia, including Southeast Asia. A healthy 35% of all SA apple exports are destined for these markets. Strong growth has also been seen in Africa and the Middle East.

The South African industry also plans to launch a market development campaign to reintroduce the unique characteristics of South African apples to the Thai trade and consumers. Over the last five to ten years, South African apple growers have invested heavily in state-of-the-art facilities, production practices, technology, and new cultivars. They are confident that South African apples will suit Thai consumers’ preferences and taste profiles.

Hortgro would like to thank the Department of Agriculture, the SA Embassy staff in Thailand and the Thai Ambassador to SA for their continued support and hard work in achieving this goal. While final administrative matters are concluded before the first container leaves shore, South African apple growers are ready to go.

For more information, contact Jacques du Preez, jacques@hortgro.co.za

Download the press release with the Afrikaans version here: PressRelease_SA apples to Thailand_eng_afr_20December2024