Sun World Adds Six New Licensees in Egypt and Chile to Strengthen Year-Round Grape Supply

Sun World International has broadened its global licensing network with the addition of six new grower–exporter partners across Egypt and Chile, a move aimed at supporting consistent, year-round availability of the company’s branded table grape varieties.

The Bakersfield-based fruit breeder and licensor said the new partnerships expand its presence in two key production regions that supply major global markets during complementary seasons. 

The companies joining the network include a mix of vertically integrated agricultural groups and long-standing family producers with established export programs.

According to Sun World, each licensee was selected for adherence to quality, sustainability standards, and the production protocols required for the company’s premium grape brands, which include Autumncrisp, Ruby Rush And Midnight Beauty. The new partners will gain access to Sun World varieties as well as agronomic support and marketing tools designed to maintain consistency across international markets.

“These partnerships reflect the kind of thoughtful growth that defines Sun World,” said Pablo Ramirez, the company’s vice president of global licensing. 

He noted that the company evaluates potential licensees based on production capabilities, postharvest practices and alignment with Sun World’s brand expectations. 

“Together, they strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional fruit to retailers and consumers across every region,” Ramirez said.

The new licensees include major producers in both hemispheres, such as Cairo 3A and ITAMCO in Egypt and Delipack and Geofrut in Chile. Several of the companies oversee thousands of acres of fruit production, operate certified packing houses, or manage large exporter networks. Sun World said these suppliers will help broaden the reach of its proprietary breeding program and support rising demand for premium grape varieties across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the Americas.

With production now expanding simultaneously in northern and southern hemispheres, Sun World executives say the company is better positioned to offer uninterrupted supply throughout the calendar year. 

Petri van der Merwe, vice president of global licensing for Sun World, noted consistent sourcing remains a priority for retailers and importers managing the premium grape segment. 

“By expanding across both hemispheres, we’re not just growing our footprint—we’re strengthening the reliability and reach of Sun World fruit for retailers and consumers everywhere,” he said.

Sun World has continued to increase its global partner network over the past decade as demand for branded fruit has grown and as breeding programs have introduced new varieties designed for diverse climates and longer shipping windows. The company works with producers in more than 20 countries and has increased its focus on sustainable farming practices, traceability systems and postharvest innovations that support export markets.

More information about Sun World’s licensing program is available at sun-world.com.