Welcome to this week’s AMT Fresh Produce Market Overview, proudly brought to you by Villa Crop Protection.
While vegetable prices saw some volatility last week, the fruit markets experienced a more stable performance, with a few commodities showing notable gains and others slipping lower due to changing volumes and seasonal shifts.
Let’s take a closer look at how the main fruit commodities performed across South Africa’s major markets — and what to expect in the weeks ahead.
🍌 Bananas Lead the Gains
The banana market had a stronger week, with prices climbing to R8.31 per kilogram. This increase comes on the back of steady consumer demand and moderate supply, keeping the market balanced for now.
If volumes remain in check over the next few weeks, banana prices could hold at current levels, with only minor fluctuations expected as warmer weather boosts local production.
🍏 Apples and Pears Remain Steady to Softer
Apple prices traded sideways last week at R13.20 per kilogram, reflecting a stable balance between supply and demand.
Pears, however, moved slightly lower to R9.38 per kilogram, following higher market volumes. Seasonal trends suggest that pear prices may continue to face mild downward pressure as the season progresses.
🍊 Citrus: Oranges Up, Lemons Down
The orange market performed well, rising 5% to R4.44 per kilogram. Good quality fruit and continued local consumption supported this upward move.
In contrast, lemon prices declined to R5.98 per kilogram. This softening can largely be attributed to ample supply and lower export demand during this time of year.
🥑 Avocados Ease Lower as Volumes Rise
Avocado prices slipped 6% last week to R20.56 per kilogram, mainly due to increased volumes entering the market.
Although local demand remains firm, the larger availability is likely to keep prices under slight pressure for the short term. However, as the season winds down later in the year, we could see some price recovery.
🍇 Table Grapes Begin to Ease as New Season Approaches
Table grape prices decreased to R54.26 per kilogram, as higher import volumes and the anticipation of the first local grapes reaching the markets weigh on prices.
With early-season South African grapes expected to start arriving soon, we may see further easing in the coming weeks.
🍍 Pineapples Climb While Blueberries Soften
Pineapples increased to R10.03 per kilogram, supported by steady local demand and moderate availability.
Blueberries, however, moved 6% lower to R60.17 per kilogram. This decline follows an increase in marketed volumes, but prices are still relatively strong given the fruit’s premium status and high export value.
🍇 Outlook for the Weeks Ahead
The fruit market is currently in a transitional phase as winter crops taper off and early summer fruit begins to enter the system.
We can expect:
- Citrus prices to remain mixed, with oranges likely holding firm.
- Avocado and grape prices to trend slightly lower as supply rises.
- Blueberries to stay volatile, depending on export flows and domestic demand.
Overall, consumer demand remains healthy, helping to cushion against sharp price declines.
🌿 Proudly Brought to You by Villa Crop Protection
This week’s AMT Fresh Produce Market Overview is proudly sponsored by Villa Crop Protection.
For detailed fruit and vegetable price insights, weekly reports, and forecasts, visit amtrends.co.za