The 2014 MY production of apples, pears and grapes is expected to remain flat as the rising costs of production and orchard and vineyard establishment are expected to constrain growth area planted. Following unseasonal hail and rainfall, which damaged apple and pear fruits in late November 2013, apple and pear exports are expected to decrease by 16 percent and ten percent respectively, as the damaged fruit will be diverted from the export market to the domestic market and for processing. The 2013 MY apple, pear and grape production tonnages have been the highest reported in South Africa since 2003, based on the exceptionally good growing and weather conditions.
