George Emerges as Exciting New Avocado-Growing Region in South Africa

South Africa’s avocado industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with the traditionally subtropical fruit now thriving in the temperate southern regions. The town of George, located in the scenic Garden Route of the Western Cape, is fast becoming a major hotspot for avocado cultivation.

Historically, the country’s avocado production has been concentrated in the north-eastern provinces like Limpopo and Mpumalanga. However, a significant shift is now underway. Southern areas such as the Helderberg Basin, Riebeeck Kasteel, and most notably George, are stepping into the spotlight as new growth frontiers.

At a recent event hosted by the South African Avocado Growers Association (SAAGA) near George, industry leaders and agricultural experts convened to discuss the region’s promising trajectory.

According to Dr. Guy Witney of Great Brak Avos, avocado plantings in the Western Cape have expanded from just 135 hectares in 2017 to over 1,250 hectares in 2024.“We harvested just over 3,000 tonnes in the 2024/2025 season, and with new orchards entering production, we expect between 5,000 and 6,500 tonnes this year,” Witney shared. 

A Strategic Advantage in Timing

One of the major advantages of growing avocados in the Western Cape is the timing of the harvest. Unlike the Lowveld, where harvesting ends by mid-year, George allows for harvesting from September through January — creating a vital extension of the South African avocado export season.

This late-season harvest positions South African growers to meet rising European demand during a period when global supply is low, offering better prices and market access. 

Boost for Domestic Market

The domestic avocado market is also set to benefit. Last year, limited local supply pushed prices sharply upward. But with the expanded crop forecast for 2025, especially during the festive season, South African consumers can expect improved availability and more stable prices. 

Tech-Driven Growth in the Region

Adding further momentum to George’s avocado boom is the integration of modern agricultural technology. Stellenbosch University, in partnership with international agri-tech firm NIK Group, is conducting trials of AI-enhanced ‘agridrones’ capable of carrying loads up to 60kg.

Dr. Anelle Blanckenberg, lead researcher in subtropical fruit at the university, stressed the importance of precision farming for long-term competitiveness.

“The Western Cape climate provides an attractive opportunity to extend the export season to Europe, with its strong demand for avocados as a superfood,” she said.

Blanckenberg highlighted that innovations in crop monitoring and yield prediction through drone and AI technology will play a crucial role in expanding access to new markets, including China and India, where avocado consumption is beginning to take off. 

A Bright Future for George and Beyond

With a growing footprint, advanced farming techniques, and favorable export windows, the George region is poised to become a cornerstone of South Africa’s avocado industry. The combination of climate suitability, market demand, and research-backed innovation makes the future of avocado farming in the Western Cape especially promising.

As production surges and the industry modernizes, George’s rise reflects a broader shift toward a more resilient, competitive, and globally relevant South African avocado sector.

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