Adverse weather conditions affect yields

The strong rand has not been the only factor influencing export volumes, says Safmarine’s Greg Rohrs. “Adverse weather conditions – which have been a problem with extreme conditions in parts of the country, ranging from drought-like conditions to heavy rains – certainly affected table grapes and stone fruit yields in early 2010, and avocados later in the year. “For example, avocados in the Limpopo province had to remain on the tree for up to 12 days longer at the onset of harvesting because of the rain. Not only did this affect the volumes of cargo moved, but it will have an adverse affect on the number of avocados produced next season.” The industrial action that ended in late May, and which affected all of South Africa’s major ports, delayed cargo, created equipment shortages and increased exporter costs.