Having gone through a tumultuous 2023, citrus growers are relieved that the season is nearing an end. Though it has not been an easy year, there is a glimpse of hope.
Citrus Growers Association (CGA) special envoy to European Union Deon Joubert said growers did not have an easy season which was made worse by factors such as load shedding, unusual weather patterns, and logistical strains at the ports and rail.
Tough growing season
With the European Union (EU) being the biggest market for South African growers, in the past months, the CGA have called for government intervention in the regulations of the EU which did not allow citrus fruits with citrus black spot.
Joubert said the CGA and the Fresh Produce Exporters Forum (FPEF) announced the conclusion of the 2023 orange exports to Europe.
He explained that the last day of inspection for oranges exported to Europe from South Africa, not including exports from the Western and Northern Cape provinces, will be on Friday, 15 September.
Handing the baton over
“As the South African citrus season in Europe comes to its natural end around the 15th of October, this gives the floating consignments of approved oranges time to reach destinations in Europe.
“It is in a spirit of budding co-operation with European citrus producers, notably in Spain, that the South African industry now hands over the handling of citrus demand to the northern hemisphere.”
Joubert said CGA and FPEF remained hopeful that their announcement would allow the northern hemisphere to take advantage of current excellent market conditions.
‘We have sent our best’
“Consumers worldwide, including Europe, have shown an exceptional appetite for South African citrus. The local industry has not been able to fill the demand by European orange consumers this year,” he added.
Even though it was a tough season, Joubert said growers worked tirelessly to ensure that the produce that came from South Africa remained of good quality.
“The CGA and FPEF want to thank growers, exporters, and other industry role players for their continued productivity and commitment to an industry that supports 140 000 livelihoods.
“As ever, the CGA and FPEF remain committed to working with government and other value chain partners to ensure local growers can withstand the current economic headwinds,” said Joubert.
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