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South Africa’s citrus industry delivered a bumper year in 2025, with exports surging 22% to record levels. This performance was driven by favorable weather, strong global demand, and improved port logistics. According to the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa, a strong appetite for juicing oranges and lemons, coupled with an early end to Northern hemisphere supplies, extended the profitable sales window for growers. However, industry leaders warn that volume alone masks mounting pressures, including volatile prices, rising input costs, and trade barriers. Industry leaders are particularly concerned about a new 30% US tariff, which could have a much greater impact in 2026. As uncertainty looms, growers are urging urgent trade negotiations and broader market access to sustain momentum.
Forbes