Citrus Growers’ Association CEO Justin Chadwick has questioned the over-zealous implementation of phytosanitary requirements by some trading partners, labelling them counter-productive and often unnecessary.
Writing in the CGA annual report, Chadwick says that the citrus industry may sometimes be too tolerant.
“Despite overwhelming evidence that these measures are without merit and unnecessary, southern African citrus industries continue to spend considerable time and money to remain compliant,” he says.
“The exemplary track record that South Africa, Zimbabwe and Eswatini have in terms of their phytosanitary compliance is testament to the huge investment in research, the adoption of research results, and the adaptation to meet requirements.”
He says it’s key that the industry resolves many outstanding market access issues so as to grow markets in line with the anticipated increase in supply volumes. “This cannot be done alone – the relevant government departments need to be capacitated with competent officials, and together we need to be agile, aggressive and assertive in our bilateral discussions. Compliance cannot be the only remedy – unfair market access requirements need to be challenged.”
