Bumper citrus crop for exports

CITRUS growers from southern Africa will export a record crop of close to 137 million boxes of citrus fruit to more than 100 countries this year, according to the Citrus Growers’ Association.

Addressing the Citrus Marketing Forum – a body representing citrus growers and exporters – the association said the rise in exports should translate into job opportunities, more foreign exchange revenue and a growing economy.

Association chief executive Justin Chadwick said: “The citrus industry has enjoyed two record crops in succession for the export market. Last year’s crop yielded a revenue of nearly R19 billion.” About 600 delegates, including citrus growers, economists and business people, attended this year’s forum.

Valencia oranges make up the biggest portion of the citrus export market, at 39%, followed by navel oranges (20%), lemons (16%), soft citrus (13%) and grapefruit (12%).

Chadwick said increased resilience of the citrus industry and its ability to adapt to technological changes had contributed to the industry being able to overcome challenges.

“Our local citrus industry is one of the country’s most important fruit groups by value and volume.

‘‘It yields a revenue of more than R20bn per year, of which 92% comes from exports, and provides jobs to more than 100 000 people,” Chadwick said.