Grape growers predict bumper harvest

GRAPE growers along the Orange River foresee a bumper harvest and record export earnings.

The harvest started at the beginning of November. Capespan managing director Andre Vermaak said favourable weather conditions had attributed to this year’s high-quality and large harvest. Government appointed Capespan to render services with regard to harvesting, production and marketing at the Namibia Grape Company, which is owned by the National Youth Service. Despite the strengthening South African rand that may have a negative impact on export earnings, Vermaak said the high demand for grapes in Europe would outweigh the currency value, ensuring record prices for growers. Vermaak expects to exceed this year’s target of 3,5 million boxes of grapes weighing 4,5 kg each.’In the past we had to beg buyers, especially United Kingdom supermarkets, but now they have made it a priority to trade with us,’ he said. The general manager of Navico Grape Company, Jan Mostert, expressed the same sentiments, saying the price, quality and quantity of grapes looked better than last year because of the favourable weather. He estimates that his company will export 1,5 million boxes of grapes this year. Leen Droogendijk, director of the Netherlands-based company D-Quality Survey BV, who has been overseeing the packaging and harvesting at Navico grape company, said his company intends to export 1,7 million boxes. He said Namibian grapes are in high demand because of their taste and long shelf life.On top of that, Namibian grape companies also meet the European import specifications although they are being adjusted every year, he added. luqman@namibian.com.na

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