Imagine grapes are like little bundles of energy travelling across the globe. In the world of table grapes (the kinds you eat fresh), there’s been a major shake-up. Peru, once behind Chile, has now become the top exporter of table grapes in the world.
At the same time, China is rapidly rising as a powerful player in this field. This shift is not just about numbers — it changes how the whole industry works. Let’s dive into the story and see how this affects markets, exporters, and your fruit bowl.
Peru Overtakes Chile: The New Champion
A fresh report from Rabobank revealed something big. Peru has now taken the lead over Chile and is the world’s number one table grape exporter. This is called a “significant shift” in the produce world.
In the 2024/25 season, Peru shipped a record 4.6 million tonnes of table grapes globally. That’s more than ever before. This growth tells us that Peru’s grape sector is becoming stronger and more competitive.
China’s Growing Role in Table Grapes
But wait — there’s more. China is stepping in fast and becoming a formidable contender in the global table grape business. Rabobank expects that China’s exports will exceed 100 million boxes soon. This means the global market is set to undergo big changes by the end of the decade.
China’s rise also opens doors for market diversification — particularly in Southeast Asia. These new markets offer fresh opportunities for grape exporters worldwide.
China is also leaning toward self-sufficiency. In other words, it is importing less and producing more for itself. This shift strengthens its role in the industry.
What’s Happening in North & South America
- In North America, U.S. table grape exports are now more stable. One spot seeing growth is Mexico, helped by better retail promotion and retail reach.
- In South America, exports have bounced back from weather issues. The region shipped 1.3 million metric tonnes, a record, and is poised for further growth in 2025/26.
These shifts show that the South American grape export market is recovering and expanding again.
Key Markets: Europe & the U.S.
The European Union and the United States still remain the largest importers of table grapes. Together, they make up 43% of global import volume. Over the past ten years, imports in these markets have grown by about 2% each year.
In the U.S., people are eating more grapes. On average, each person eats 8.2 pounds per year now — and this might jump to 9 pounds in 2025/26.
Why This Change Matters
This shift matters for many reasons:
- Exporters in Peru are shining, while others like Chile must adapt.
- China’s rise draws attention: as it becomes more self-reliant, Southeast Asia becomes a promising region for exporters.
- Demand patterns are changing. Countries and regions must look for new buyers, new routes, and new growth areas.
According to Gonzalo Salinas, senior analyst at RaboResearch, “Peru’s success reflects the sector’s evolving competitiveness … China’s influence is reshaping the global table grape market.”
Major Grape Exporters & Markets
| Region / Country | Key Strengths / Trends | Export / Import Data Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Peru | Fast growth, rising competitiveness | 4.6 million tonnes in 2024/25 |
| Chile | Historically strong export base | Now overtaken by Peru |
| China | Growing production, reducing imports | Exports expected >100 million boxes |
| South America (total) | Rebounded from weather struggles | 1.3 million metric tonnes exported |
| EU & USA | Big import markets | 43% share of global imports |
| U.S. domestic market | Rising per capita consumption | 8.2 lbs → possibly 9 lbs by 2025/26 |
| Mexico | Strong growth in exports | Boosted by retail expansion |
Strong Conclusion
The table grape industry is going through a major transformation. Peru now leads the world, shaking up the old order that once belonged to Chile. China’s rise makes the future even more exciting and unpredictable.
While Europe and the U.S. remain big buyers, markets in Southeast Asia may become more crucial. Exporters, growers, and markets will all have to adapt smartly to ride this wave. The next few years could be full of new opportunities, new trade routes, and new leaders in the global grape trade.
