South Africa has successfully exported its first official shipment of table grapes to the Philippines, following the granting of market access in 2025.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen said the shipment marked the opening of a new trade corridor between the two countries.
“It demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained cooperation, mutual trust, and a shared ambition to grow our agricultural sectors,” Steenhuisen said in a statement on Thursday.
The shipment followed several years of technical engagement between the South African and Philippine governments, supported by industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities.
The Philippines is among the top 20 global importers of table grapes, with imports estimated at approximately 74 000 tonnes in 2024, equivalent to around 16 million cartons of 4,5 kg each. With a population of over 118 million people, a rapidly expanding middle class and increasing urbanisation, the market presents significant opportunities for South African producers.
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South Africa’s table grape industry has shown steady growth. In the current 2025/26 season to date, exports have reached 76,6 million cartons, reflecting the sector’s resilience and ability to respond to global demand.
Steenhuisen said South Africa viewed the Philippines as a long-term partner in food security, trade and agricultural development.
“We remain committed to being a reliable, predictable supplier of high-quality, safe agricultural products, and to working closely with our Philippine counterparts to build a consistent and growing presence in this market over time,” he said.
Expanding into new markets such as the Philippines forms part of South Africa’s strategy to diversify export destinations and reduce over-reliance on traditional trading partners.
“Southeast Asia represents a dynamic and increasingly important region for South African agriculture. Our approach is not to replace existing markets, but to broaden our footprint in a way that supports long-term growth, stability and opportunity for our producers,” Steenhuisen said.
The industry will now focus on establishing a presence in the Philippine market during South Africa’s supply window, with plans to expand volumes and varietal offerings over the next three to five years.
Steenhuisen thanked the South African Table Grape Industry, the Department of Agriculture, the South African Embassy in the Philippines led by Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe, as well as the Philippine Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Plant Industry.
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