New varieties are expected to stimulate growth in South Africa's cherry industry, which is still relatively young. The UK is currently the largest importer, but markets in the East are also promising due to high demand. Recent developments have created optimism for future growth, with growers ready to plant new varieties.
A cherry orchard in Western Cape (South Africa)
South Africa's earlier season compared to Chile, along with established trade relationships for apples and pears, provides a strong foundation for cherry exports. Between 2021 and 2023, exports more than doubled. This year, a crop increase of 15-25% is expected if conditions remain favorable.
Last year, 2,000 tonnes were produced, with 45% exported, primarily to the UK. Growing markets in the Middle East and Asia, including Malaysia, Hong Kong, and now Vietnam, are also being targeted. The South African season, mainly in December and January, benefits from lower competition in shipping compared to other fruit seasons.
Read full article: Fruitnet
04 Feb 2026
Argentina’s cherry market faces a double blow: cheap bulk imports from Chile and extreme weather damage in Patagonia. Export volumes plummet, key markets shift, and the CAPCI association calls for urgent measures to protect the Argentinian cherry sector.
02 Apr 2024
A severe hailstorm affected some 3,500 hectares of cherry trees in the Extemadura region of Extremadura, Spain. The real tragedy is that not all producers are insured due to the imposition of Agroseguros conditions, according to the Unión de Extremadura.
08 Sep 2026
A study on cherry germplasm in Hungary analyzes SSR markers BPPCT034 and CPSCT038 linked to fruit size, highlighting new opportunities for marker-assisted selection and genetic improvement of sweet and sour cherry in modern breeding programs across Hungary today in EU.
08 Sep 2026
With compressed prices and record volumes, cherry profitability in Chile increasingly depends on phenology, BBCH monitoring, leaf wetness and risk management. A data-driven approach helps growers protect fruit quality, exportable yield, margins and market competitiveness.
