In an important step forward for lemon exporters to China, a revised citrus protocol has been signed with the country that includes important revisions with regard to the cold disinfestation treatment for lemons
This will open the way for lemons to enter the Chinese market, says Citrus Growers’ Association CEO Justin Chadwick.
The previous protocol’s cold disinfestation treatment precluded lemon exports as lemons were at risk of cold damage.
The revised protocol was signed by Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza. It will now be signed by the minister in China, before coming into effect.
China has become a leading importer of South African citrus – in 2020 over 130 000 metric tons of citrus was exported to the country (6% of total exports). Lemons will now complete the citrus basket offered to Chinese consumers.