In 2024, citrus accounted for more than half of South Africa’s total fruit export value, highlighting its importance not only to global consumers but also to the South African economy, especially in terms of rural employment and foreign currency earnings.
The sector’s contribution is substantial. Over 140,000 jobs are directly and indirectly linked to citrus production and exports, with the industry supporting entire communities in the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Western and Northern Cape. Citrus is the country’s top agricultural export category by value, and its long-term growth projections remain strong.
According to the Citrus Growers’ Association (CGA), the sector aims to export 260 million cartons annually by 2032, a target known as “Vision 260”. Achieving this goal would generate 100,000 additional jobs and significantly boost the rural economy. For the 2025 season, production is expected to remain stable, with export volumes in line with the five-year average. Overall fruit quality is high, and most categories are showing healthy volume growth.
The export forecast for 2025 includes:
52 million 15-kg cartons of Valencia oranges (+6% vs previous year)
26.1 million cartons of Navel oranges (+5%)
13.5 million 17-kg cartons of grapefruit (+6%)
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32.9 million cartons of lemons (–5%)
5.4 million cartons of clementines (+10%)
Despite this production growth, the industry faces a critical challenge: securing and maintaining international market access. With more than 70% of South African citrus destined for export, the sector is particularly vulnerable to geopolitical shifts and trade barriers.
Source: Fruchthandel
