South African raisins still favoured by importers despite weather setbacks

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As a result, local raisin producers are poised to deliver another high-volume, premium-quality export crop this season.

This will reinforce the country’s reputation as a top-tier supplier of raisins, despite unseasonable weather setbacks.

Resilience amid climate challenges

In early 2025, unexpected heavy rainfall and humidity hit the Lower Orange River growing region.

This led to some crop losses due to weaker drying conditions, lower sugar content, and an increase in unusable fruit, writes FreshFruitPortal.

However, thanks to an exceptional pre-harvest season, crop development has only been delayed by two weeks, according to Raisins South Africa.

With 46% of the crop already delivered to packers and exporters, projections remain strong, with an expected marketable yield of 96 000–104 000 tons.

Even with weather challenges, 2024–2025 production is set to surpass 90 000 tons—keeping pace with the previous season’s 96 000 tons.

Why South African raisins stand out

South Africa’s raisin industry continues to expand, fueled by 2 535 hectares of newly-established vineyards in the Orange River and Olifants River regions between 2020 and 2022.

Now in full production, these additions have increased the sector’s output by 17 000 tons.

South African raisins also boast the following characteristics:

Naturally sun-dried
Little to no pesticide residues
Distinctive colour and flavour
12-month shelf life

This is all achieved under a high level of social and environmental sustainability, further enhancing their global appeal.

“We want the market and consumers to look to South Africa as a reliable and sustainable source of superior-quality raisins,” said Wessel Lemmer, CEO of Raisins South Africa.