GRAPE EXPORT VALUES RISE DESPITE SMALLER CROP

By Jessica Dempster

New research from Rabobank shows Australian table grape exports have recorded stronger values despite a smaller, weather-affected crop in 2025-26.

The research says adverse weather, particularly in the key Sunraysia growing region, reduced production volumes and affected fruit quality.

However, lower export availability and changing market conditions helped support stronger returns for growers.

RaboResearch senior analyst Michael Harvey says Australia remains heavily reliant on international markets, with domestic production significantly exceeding local consumption.

He says exports to China and Hong Kong fell to their lowest level in 12 seasons, reflecting reduced supply and efforts to diversify into other markets.

The report says Australia’s export value returned to average post-pandemic levels of 2.92 US dollars a kilogram.

Globally, table grape trade is expected to reach a record 4.95 million tonnes in 2025-26, with growing supply from countries including China, Peru, South Africa and India.