This episode delivers a global overview of the fruit market as of November 9, 2025.

• Chile’s table grape industry faces a critical setback following the suspension of the United States Systems Approach Protocol. This decision stems from a federal court ruling against USDA exemptions that previously allowed certain Chilean regions to bypass methyl bromide fumigation. The suspension hits hardest in Atacama and Coquimbo—areas free of the European grapevine moth—and is compounded by potential delays in appeal processes due to government closure. Producers are now lobbying for exemptions and alternative treatments amid a concurrent 10% tariff on grape imports to the U.S., placing additional pressure on exporters.
• In Tamil Nadu’s Khumbum Valley, India, monsoon rains are severely impacting pannier grape production. Waterlogging and delayed ripening have driven prices down, especially in competition with Maharashtra’s seedless grape variety. Wildlife interference further threatens crops, prompting the Department of Horticulture to advocate for subsidized anti-bird netting to help mitigate losses.
• Uzbekistan has launched its first grape exports to Japan, marking a milestone in global market entry. Varieties such as Kalin barmak and Kora kishmish from Fergana were included in this initial shipment. A broader agreement with Kuva Agrostar LLC also involves additional fruits, strengthening Uzbekistan’s agricultural trade potential and boosting its economic footprint.
• California’s table grape season is nearing its end, with harvests expected to conclude by November 20. Despite shipping approximately 60 million boxes and planning 20 million more, continued strong demand is supported by low domestic fruit supplies and strawberry crop setbacks. Rain events have necessitated costly protective measures to maintain fruit quality.
• In Australia, extreme weather has again impacted fruit production. A thunderstorm in Northern New South Wales devastated Stephen Thandy’s blueberry farm, resulting in infrastructure and crop losses estimated at over $300,000. This underscores the increasing vulnerability of fruit farming to severe climatic events.