The average banana price declined to R8.86 per kilogram or R159 per 18kg box and is now 23% lower than a year ago. We anticipate prices to stay on a lower level during January as supply pressures ease, but a slight recovery is possible in February and March.

Apple prices decreased to R12.66 per kilogram, while pears dropped to R17.90 per kilogram. Apple prices can remain on a higher level during January, but expect pear prices to stay in a downward trend now as volumes to the markets increase. Orange prices also climbed, averaging R18.24 per kilogram and is likely to stay on a higher level until mid February. On the other hand, avocado prices dropped another 14% to R25.85 per kilogram, though it remain 2% higher year-on-year. Variety-wise, Fuertes decreased to R43, Hass fell to R22, and Pinkertons traded at R18 per kilogram. Avo prices can start to trend downward from mid January as well.

The average grape price declined by 4% to R28.65 per kilogram, with volumes rising 8% week-on-week. Compared to last year, we’re seeing higher prices but lower volumes at the moment. This downward trend is likely to continue until mid February, with prices likely to stay close to current price levels. Pineapples traded lower at R14.80, lemons increased to R9.10, while blueberries traded 4% higher on R70.20 per kilogram.