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Citrus Growers Association say SA is the second largest exporter of citrus fruit in the world.
Citrus Growers’ Association CEO, Boitshoko Ntshabele, says South Africa’s citrus industry has recorded its strongest export season to date.
He says growers packed over R200 million cartons for international markets, a 22% increase from last year.
Dr Ntshabele says favourable weather, improved logistics, and new orchards contributed to the record-breaking performance.
He says the bumper season shows the sector’s potential to drive exports and job creation.
Ntshabele has cautioned that the industry still faces rising costs and trade barriers.
“The imposition of a 30% tariff by the United States on citrus from South Africa had a limited impact on the industry this season. This was because the tariffs came into effect towards the end of the local season and shipments were fast-tracked. We remain very worried about the impact of the 30% tariff in the coming 2026 season. That is why a mutually beneficial trade deal between the United States and South Africa must be finalized urgently,” says Ntshabele.
