Tue Sep 24 03:20:19 UTC 2024: ## Australian Table Grape Prices Set to Plummet as Local Season Starts

**Berri, Australia -** Good news for Australian consumers: table grape prices are expected to drop significantly when the local season kicks off in November. After several challenging seasons marked by disease and weather problems, the Australian table grape industry is looking forward to a bumper harvest and lower prices.

While exports to China, Australia’s largest market, have fallen by 29%, the market is showing promise in other areas, including Indonesia, South Korea, and Japan, thanks to new market access. The industry is also seeing a strong increase in domestic demand, with Australians consuming an average of 4.15kg of table grapes per person annually.

Currently, supermarket prices for imported table grapes are hovering between $9-22/kg. However, when domestically-grown grapes hit the shelves, consumers could see a decrease of up to $10/kg. This anticipated price drop is attributed to the increased supply of locally-grown grapes, which are generally more affordable than imported varieties.

Australian Table Grape Association chief executive Jeff Scott expressed the need for consistent pricing throughout the year to ensure growers receive a fair return for their work. He acknowledged the pressure on consumers due to rising costs of living but highlighted the challenges faced by farmers with increasing input costs, such as fuel and fertilizer.

Tony Lombardo, a table grape grower from Menindee in far west New South Wales, is optimistic about this year’s harvest after overcoming challenges in recent years, including fruit fly, spider infestations, and downy mildew.

While the Australian table grape industry faces ongoing challenges, the outlook for the upcoming season appears positive, with lower prices and increased domestic demand set to benefit both consumers and growers alike.

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