South Africa 29/01/2021

2020 showed solid growth in the South African fruit industry

 

Tru-Cape, exporter of South African apples and pears, notes that in 2020 they showed a double growth in apple and pear sales compared to the previous year, and positively evaluates the year ahead.

While uncertain market conditions such as the impact of Brexit and tariffs remain, and the recent volatility of the rand against the US dollar, euro and pound sterling is not benefiting, South African agriculture has proven itself even with Covid-19 and with closed borders for a certain period during the year.

"The increase was mainly due to the higher volume of fruit, with a larger crop as well as higher export pricing in Rand terms for the 2020 financial year. Although the higher Rand price was due to the weakening Rand we also saw currency inflation in certain markets," said Roelf Pienaar, managing director at Tru-Cape.

According to Pienaar, the company sells over 50% of its fruit on the African continent. In addition to growing their overall footprint in Africa towards the end of the year, Tru-Cape is also seen good steady growth in the UK, Europe and Russia. "The Middle East has proven to be a particularly important market for the company, compared to previous years, where we have seen significant increase year-on-year. South East Asia remains an important destination for the company's product," he added.

Tru-Cape, and the industry as a whole, responded to the first news of Covid-19 in March 2020, during the peak harvest and packing season, quickly and efficiently. The company and many other businesses restructured to allow Tru-Cape to continue working remotely. The company's logistics team and partner company LINK Supply Chain Management have successfully dealt with many South African ports issues and global delays in shipping.

“We must not forget how we all succeeded in 2020 against the odds. And, in 2021 we are redoubling efforts to grow better quality fruit and pack to the agreed standard,” concluded Pienaar.

Launched in 2001, Tru-Cape distributes and markets South Africa’s leading deciduous fruit growers. Head office of the company is based in Somerset West, outside Cape Town. Other distribution centres in the head office include the 4000 square meter office and distribution facility in City Deep Johannesburg, and an addition office in Durban.

For more information, visit company’s website.