Current port disruptions are expected to have a minimal impact on the current citrus export season, according to a statement released by the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA).
“With more of Transnet’s IT systems coming back online all the time, it is expected that the current disruptions will be short-lived.”
The CGA says it will continue working closely with Transnet and service providers across the citrus value chain.
“Transnet is working around the clock to get the full IT system back online, with some applications already having been restored. While these repairs are being carried out, manual systems are being used to shift cargo, which has slowed down operations at the ports. However, citrus being shipped via breakbulk vessels has not been impacted due to this fruit being serviced by private terminals in domestic ports.”
The CGA says there is currently a backlog of fruit across the citrus supply chain, causing temporary delays when it comes to fruit being exported to key markets. In order to ease pressure on South African ports, growers are also diverting fruit to the Maputo port.
