This episode explores key developments in the global fruits market.

• In India, unseasonal rains from May to October 2024 have devastated grape crops in major producing regions such as Nashik and Sangli, resulting in yield losses of up to 100 percent. This has caused a doubling of grape prices, pushing up wine production costs and leading to a 25 to 30 percent price hike in entry-level wines. Tax incentives that favor the use of local grapes have further intensified cost pressures. The grape shortage is also disrupting India’s fresh grape exports and wine export market, valued at 30 to 40 crore annually.
• Greece, meanwhile, continues to export strawberries to Germany and other European markets despite logistical disruptions, thanks to rerouted shipments through the Port of Patras. Favorable weather has enabled early, abundant harvests, with growers using strategies such as increased potted plantings and a focus on early-ripening varieties like Fortuna, Arwen, and Victory. However, Egyptian strawberries—cheaper but lower in quality are exerting downward pressure on Greek strawberry prices, which are already 15 to 20 percent below last year’s levels.
• In Florida, a new marketing campaign by the Strawberry Growers Association highlights the quality and flavor of local strawberries under the Fresh From Florida brand. The campaign uses digital platforms to reach consumers and supports Florida’s expanding strawberry production. Nevertheless, market saturation and perishability continue to pose challenges.
• Egypt’s strawberry sector has achieved a 150 percent increase in exports to Russia and a 25 percent rise in total exports for 2025, now reaching 86 countries. This growth is aided by an accelerated harvest season due to higher-than-average temperatures, improving Egypt’s export timing and competitiveness.
• In Southeast Asia, Korean strawberries are thriving as premium exports due to their high sugar content and quality. Varieties like Seol Young, developed locally, are favored in markets despite intense competition from Mexico, Spain, and the United States. However, dependence on a few specific cultivars and climatic sensitivity pose sustainability risks, emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation and varietal diversification.

This episode explores major developments in the global fruits market.

• Chile’s grape industry has been significantly affected by the suspension of a systems approach previously used for U.S. market access. Key grape-growing regions such as Atacama, Coquimbo, and Valparaíso—responsible for around 20 million boxes annually—are facing logistical and financial setbacks. With some firms reverting to traditional fumigation, quality standards and export competitiveness have been compromised.
• In Peru, grape production faced weather-related delays, particularly in the north due to heavy rainfall. However, recovery is expected in December from the southern regions. Demand for green seedless grapes remains strong, supporting stable pricing despite the early end of the California season.
• Spain’s strawberry season began in Lepe, Huelva, under tough conditions caused by high temperatures and storm damage. Despite this, planted areas expanded, with early harvests favoring the pest-resistant Candela variety. In Egypt, early strawberry harvests increased supply but reduced quality, leading to low local prices. Growers dealt with pest issues and poor seedling quality, though demand remains stable for high-quality, low-residue exports. New processing methods, such as drying, are being introduced to meet global demand.
• Ukraine’s berry sector saw a 35% decline in processed output compared to vegetables, driven by high raw material costs and volatile market prices. Still, companies like Tevita exceeded their targets, reflecting resilience in a challenging environment. Peru reported strong growth in strawberry exports, primarily to the United States, with frozen strawberries dominating due to consumer preference.
• On Réunion Island, Victoria pineapple production has declined due to subsidy cuts and evolving agricultural practices. Strategic delays in market entry aim to avoid low demand periods, while sustainability and fair producer compensation remain priorities.
• South Africa’s citrus sector reported export growth supported by favorable weather and efficient port operations. Demand for juicing-grade oranges and lemons remains strong. However, concerns persist over the impact of U.S. tariffs and the need for broader international market access to ensure long-term sustainability.

This week’s global fruits market report.

• Peru has strengthened its position in the global grape market, particularly with exports to China surpassing 34,000 tons by 2024, securing its place as the second-largest supplier. This success is attributed to agricultural innovations such as modern irrigation, drone technologies, and automated post-harvest systems, which have improved both product quality and logistics. In contrast, Chile has dropped to third place among grape exporters to China, with exports falling to 30,000 tons due to labor shortages, drought, rising costs, and underperformance of new grape varieties.
• Moldova has emerged as a significant grape exporter, reaching over 30,000 tons by November 2025, with more than half directed to the European Union. While average prices have slightly declined, revenues remain strong, aided by enhanced storage infrastructure that has supported consistent export flows despite adverse weather.
• Peru’s blueberry exports are projected to stabilize at 360,000 tons in 2025. Since taking the global lead in 2015, Peru has maintained growth through strategic supply management and diversification of seasonal varieties. Climate change poses an increasing threat to blueberry production, especially in Latin America and Africa, where higher temperatures and reduced water availability are affecting crop quality and raising production costs. Adaptive strategies, including relocating production and investing in technology, are underway in Peru and Chile.
• Chilean grape exports to the U.S. face additional barriers due to the suspension of the system approach, requiring fumigation on arrival. This has raised costs and diminished competitiveness relative to Peruvian grapes, which retain cold chain integrity from harvest to market.
• In Argentina, shifts in agricultural priorities are emerging as farmers move from soybeans toward more profitable crops like corn and sunflower. This transition is expected to boost yield potential and processing capabilities in the coming years.
• Finally, Ghana is implementing a new minimum farm gate price for mangoes through the Tree Crops Development Authority. This initiative seeks to improve price transparency, enhance economic predictability for growers, and better align local production with international market demands.