South Africa has successfully gained market access to export fresh table grapes to the Philippines, marking a significant achievement for the country’s agricultural sector. This breakthrough comes after nearly a decade of negotiations, finally concluding on 26 February 2025. The expansion into this new market is expected to further strengthen South Africa’s position as one of the top global exporters of table grapes, while also boosting economic growth, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. Currently, the European Union and the United Kingdom remain the largest destinations for South African table grape exports, accounting for 75% of total shipments. During the 2022/23 season alone, the country exported 63 million cartons of grapes, supporting over 100,000 seasonal and permanent workers.
Beyond economic benefits, the opening of the Philippines market aligns with the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to empower black farmers by increasing their participation in global trade. The expansion of agricultural exports is expected to drive higher production levels, stimulate investment in farming, and contribute positively to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP). Recent data from Statistics South Africa indicates that the economy grew by 0.6% in the last quarter of 2024, with agriculture playing a key role in this improvement. The addition of the Philippines as an export destination is expected to further strengthen this trend, offering South African grape producers access to a lucrative and expanding market in Southeast Asia.
To ensure compliance with international trade requirements, South African exporters must meet stringent phytosanitary and food safety standards outlined by the Philippine authorities. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DALRRD) has urged all interested exporters, including production units and packhouses, to register for the necessary certification codes. Farmers will also be required to implement good agricultural practices, such as orchard sanitation and integrated pest management, to meet the quarantine regulations set by the Philippines. As the first shipment prepares for export, authorities emphasise the importance of maintaining high compliance standards to secure long-term market access and sustain South Africa’s reputation as a leading agricultural exporter.