The Citrus Growers’ Association of South Africa (CGA) and the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum (FPEF) announce the conclusion of the 2023 orange exports to Europe.
The final 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 the 15th of September.
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.
The CGA and FPEF's announcement also allows the northern hemisphere to take advantage of current excellent market conditions. 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.
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.
Considering the challenges growers have had to face during the 2023 season - which included continued load shedding, unusual weather and logistical strain at ports and on rail - the CGA and FPEF wants 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.
