By Vutivi Business News
South African exporters of fresh produce who participated in the Fruit Logistica international exhibition in Berlin in Germany earlier this month managed to secure over 200 quality trade leads.The South African National Pavilion that was set up by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition offered a platform for exporters to promote and showcase South African fresh produce potential in general, and the potential of participating companies in particular.
Fresh Produce Exporters Forum CEO Anton Kruger said it was critical for the exporters to participate in the popular exhibition to ensure that South Africa was visible as the biggest exporter of fresh fruit in the Southern Hemisphere.“The exhibition gave the exporters an opportunity to get new trade leads, establish new relationships, and most importantly, to maintain existing relationships and sign contracts for the next season for the citrus fruits, amongst others,” said Kruger.
“Some of the members reported up to 50 new leads and they are pleased with the platform provided, which gave them the space to conduct business, get deals and maintain relationships.”Kruger said the fresh produce industry required exporters to be present at trade shows and meet clients face-to-face, highlighting that the fresh fruit industry “is in essence a people industry”.
He added that the pavilion was a big value to the exporters and producers, especially as it was in the same location as previous years.“The benefit of this is that existing and potential clients now know where to find the South Africans every year,” added Kruger.
The director of Iris Fresh, Sandeep Valodia, signed deals with three new customers from Mauritius, France and the Netherlands, and recorded several other tangible leads that could turn into export sales in the near future.
Vutivi News recently reported that Dibesho Serage, co-owner of Ground Stone Farm in Zebediela, Limpopo, was showcasing his premium nectarines and peaches at the exhibition.
His participation marked a significant step in expanding global trade and positioning Ground Stone as a key player in the export of high-quality, sustainable produce from Limpopo.
Serage told Vutivi News that in terms of market expansion and strategy, his main objective was to open international market opportunities.
