Sharp decline in Greek grape exports, Brazilian grapes face higher US tariffs

Greek grape exports to foreign markets have dropped by 36% year-on-year as of week 29, while Brazilian grapes are now subject to a total 35% tariff in the US, redirecting focus toward Europe.

Greek grape exports to international markets, including EU countries, reached 223,583 kg by week 29 of 2026, marking a 36.1% decrease compared to 350,071 kg in the same period last year. Bulgaria and Romania remained the largest destinations despite lower volumes, while Germany saw a significant increase of 119.2%. Hungary appeared as a new export market. Shipments to Poland, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Cyprus, and Austria declined, with marked reductions to other countries as well. The current phase is characterized as a transitional start to the export season, with expectations of higher export volumes as the harvest progresses.

Brazilian table grapes remain subject to the new US tariff regime, with a total duty of 35% (including the new 25% surcharge). Brazilian grape exports to the US dropped sharply, with only 46 TEUs shipped in the first five months of 2026, a 79.6% decrease compared to the same period in 2025. In 2025, Brazil exported approximately 14,000 tonnes of grapes to the US, valued at €38.4 million. The shift in trade patterns reinforces Europe as the main destination for Brazilian grapes following the reduction in US demand.

Globally, China led table grape exports in 2025 with 857,000 tonnes (17% of the world total), followed by Peru with 695,000 tonnes (14%) and Chile with 560,000 tonnes (11%). In the white seedless segment, Peru increased exports by 11%, with prices on the spot market ranging from €2.8 to €4.4 per kg FOT. Chilean red seedless grape prices fluctuated between €2.3 and €3.3 per kg FOT during most of the campaign, maintaining levels above the previous season. Mexican grapes recorded lower minimum prices, around €2.1 per kg FOT.

South Korea's Shine Muscat grape season began early, with total production expected to match last year's. Export volumes are currently limited but anticipated to increase as the season progresses. Weather conditions in key regions such as Gimcheon and Sangju have been favorable, supporting an early and potentially larger harvest.

Severe hail and storms in Italy's Emilia Romagna region have caused significant damage to vineyards, especially in areas like Ravenna, Bologna, and Verona. Prolonged heat stress has already led to an estimated 10% reduction in fruit size for some varieties. This weather-related supply reduction may impact Italian grape exports and availability in European markets, including Poland.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker