Raisins South Africa responds to the impact of heavy rainfall in the Orange River Valley

The South African raisin industry is working to counter the impact of the unusually heavy rains in the Northern Cape throughout December 2020 and January 2021, which is predicted to have an impact on the total export volumes of South African raisins this season.

The rainfall, spread over a 350km stretch along the Orange River Valley, has varied between 80mm – 200mm during the last two months. Over the past 3 – 5 years, South Africa has received very little rain during harvest time.

Ferdie Botha, CEO of Raisins South Africa, assures of their efforts to reduce the impact of the weather: “In order to mitigate any potential further damage to the product following the rains, Raisins South Africa and packers’ technical staff are currently engaged in frequent communication with the growers to ensure that the appropriate practices are implemented at farm level. These include the selection of fruit harvested to ensure good quality, canopy management and constant monitoring of the situation. However, we definitely expect a short crop this year.”

As of 27 January, Stefan Jordaan of Raisins South Africa reported a total crop estimate of 70,000 to 75,000 ton, a decrease of 15% from last year’s production total of 85,000. Whilst South Africa were initially expecting to export 78,000 ton this year, the revised figure now indicates a drop of 15% - 20% compared to the original forecast.

The unusual weather experienced along the Orange River has had an impact on the production of Goldens in particular, which represents 30% of South Africa’s total crop. Growers are expecting damages of 50% on Goldens volumes.

Raisins South Africa have also been working as a collective on re-positioning and relaunching one of their more economical lines, the WP raisin. This product has been less impacted by the rains than Goldens. Due to a gradual recent increase in production volumes, it has now been officially rebranded as the SA Sultana, as a part of South Africa’s diversification of its product range with an ever-growing crop size.

The SA Sultana’s distinctive drying process, sugar rates and quicker production mean that this is a growing category with an anticipated 10,000 ton being produced and marketed internationally in 2021. A new trade-focussed marketing campaign in the UK will highlight the USPs of South Africa’s rebranded product.

The Olifants River valley in the unaffected Western Cape, which represents 12% of South Africa’s raisin production, has by contrast experienced good growing conditions this season. As South Africa’s key production area of currants, the forecast for 2021 is looking promising with an increase in currant exports estimated to be between 4,000 – 5,000 ton.

2021 will continue to see a strong focus on public health and healthy snacking at the forefront of Raisins South Africa’s consumer-focussed campaign, whilst also aiming to promote their industry’s point of difference to the UK market.