Many South Africans enjoyed their cherries in recent months. In fact, during the December 2025 holidays, I noticed many people were excited about the availability of cherries in their local stores and their reasonable prices. We will likely continue to see more cherries in our stores when they are in season in the coming years.
South Africa has been increasing its cherry production due to strong domestic and global demand. For example, in 2012, South Africa had 185 hectares of cherry plantings, and by 2024, the area had increased to 819 hectares, according to data from Hortgro, a horticulture producers organisation.
South Africa’s cherry production in 2025 was at a record 3,006 tonnes. About 58% of cherries are exported, 28% sold on the local market, and the rest are processed. Moreover, about 60% of South African cherries were exported to the United Kingdom, 18% to the EU and 12% to the Middle East. As production increases, we will likely be listing cherries more often in our export conversations as the industry seeks to broaden its export markets to countries such as China.
Still, there will likely remain sufficient supplies for the local markets. There is great enthusiasm in SA about cherries, and the various social media posts in December 2025 are a testament to this local vibrancy.
If you enjoyed this post, please consider subscribing to my newsletter here for free. You can also follow me on X (@WandileSihlobo)
