South Africa’s cherry industry is gearing up for one of its most promising seasons yet.
This year, growers expect to export around 58% of the national crop, with a further 28% destined for local shelves.
Ideal weather has boosted confidence across farming regions, while early harvests in the northern provinces have already exceeded expectations.
But although momentum is building, South Africa is still a relatively small player in the global cherry market.
Locally, cherries remain a luxury item for many shoppers – a challenge for retailers hoping to expand domestic consumption during the short December–January window.
That’s why exports remain the backbone of the industry.
The world wants SA cherries, and China may be next
Last season, 60% of South Africa’s cherries went to the UK, followed by the EU (18%) and the Middle East (12%).
Producers expect a similar distribution this year as demand continues to grow, while even bigger opportunities may soon open up.
According to industry body Hortgro, negotiations with Beijing are progressing well, and virtual inspections of cherry farms and packhouses may take place before year-end.
If successful, South Africa could ship its first cherries to China in the 2026/27 season – a market that consumes more cherries than any other in the world.
To meet China’s strict requirements, researchers are currently conducting a second season of trials on cold treatment protocols. Early results have been promising.
A fast-growing industry rooted in Ceres
South Africa now boasts more than 800 hectares of cherry orchards, with Ceres in the Western Cape emerging as the country’s unofficial cherry capital.
Orchards in the Free State and other northern regions have also reported encouraging yields this year.
“Volumes up north have been better than expected, and we’re anticipating a bumper crop in the Western Cape too,” Hortgro told Fruitnet.
Chile still dominates, but South Africa is catching up
Globally, South Africa still competes with heavyweights like Chile, the world’s largest cherry exporter.
But with expanding orchards, rising demand, and a potential breakthrough in China, the local industry believes it is on the cusp of something significant.
