The 2025 pecan harvest in South Africa is nearing its conclusion. Will this season yield another bumper crop? How has export performance to the Chinese market been? To address these industry concerns, International Fruit & Vegetable News recently interviewed Mr. RP Campher, Agricultural Economist at the South African Pecan Nut Producers Association.
 
  Mr. Campher reported robust production this season with steady exports to China. Data indicates that by Week 38, the 2025 season's in-shell pecan production and exports reached approximately 49,700 metric tons and 41,600 metric tons, respectively. Compared to the 2024 season's historical records of 37,200 metric tons in total production and 33,700 metric tons in exports, this season has achieved further growth, marking a new milestone for South Africa's pecan industry.
 
Market distribution indicates that approximately 99% of in-shell pecans this season were exported to China, with the remainder processed for the kernel market. On the supply side, favorable weather conditions coupled with efficient harvesting, processing, and transportation management provided robust support for exports. On the market side, the harvesting period from May to September naturally aligned with key Chinese consumption peaks such as National Day, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Double 11. This unique seasonal synergy has built South African pecans' distinctive market competitiveness.
 
  Campher also emphasized the exceptional quality of this season's crop. By week 38, approximately 97% of exported pecans achieved a kernel yield exceeding 55%, with consistently excellent kernel plumpness and uniformity in size. He attributed this quality to the South African pecan industry's continuous refinement and innovation in cultivation techniques, harvest management, processing capabilities, and supply chain coordination.
 
  In June this year, China announced zero-tariff treatment for 53 African nations with which it has diplomatic relations, including South Africa. Following this policy implementation, South African walnuts will enter the Chinese market duty-free. Industry experts believe this favorable policy will further enhance their market penetration in China. Against this backdrop, South African exporters are focusing on improving supply chain stability to consolidate their position as a major supplier from the Southern Hemisphere. With the global market's growing demand for healthy snacks, pecans—renowned for their nutritional value—are poised to accelerate their expansion into international markets in the coming years.
 
  This year, coinciding with the dual celebrations of National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival, South Africa's pecan industry is collaborating with Chinese social media influencers to showcase premium, freshly harvested pecans to Chinese consumers. Through immersive experiences and creative storytelling, these influencers will highlight the unique flavor and exceptional quality of South African pecans, helping the product gain greater market attention during the peak sales season.