South Africa is recording healthy citrus exports into Brics countries, China and Russia, while India is starting to show promise - although high import duties remain a barrier to growing trade into the country.
This is according to Citrus Growers Association CEO Justin Chadwick who highlighted South Africa’s trade with Brics countries in a brief report in his latest weekly newsletter.
“Russia has been an important destination for South African citrus for many years. Since South African citrus gained access to China in 2004, exports have increased dramatically,” Chadwick said.
“Unfortunately, exports to India remain way below potential levels, as access conditions remain difficult and import duties remain high.”
South Africa’s total citrus exports to China, Russia and India have grown from 25 million (15 kg) cartons in 2018 to more than 30 million in 2022.
“This represents 19% of all citrus exported in 2022. The citrus basket exported to these countries is mostly oranges, with grapefruit, lemons and mandarins being imported in greater quantities,” Chadwick said.
