Citrus body to squeeze in 7 new members

THE recently-launched World Citrus Organisation (WCO) is set to expand its membership from seven to 14 countries.

Together, these countries represent 70% of global citrus exports, creating a powerful global platform for dialogue and action between the citrus-producing countries worldwide.

The WCO was formed in October when sector representatives from South Africa, Argentina, Chile, Italy, Morocco, Peru and Spain agreed to form a global citrus platform to increase co-ordination in the industry.

Now, seven other countries – Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Egypt, Greece, Portugal, and the US have agreed in principle to participate.

The initiative has been led by the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) and Ailimpo, the Spanish Lemon and Grapefruit Interbranch Association, and the WCO will be administered by Freshfel Europe, the European Fresh Produce Association.

CGA chief executive Justin Chadwick said: “South Africa’s leading role in the formation of the WCO reflects its importance as the second largest global exporter of citrus fruit. More importantly, the South African citrus industry brings R20 billion into the country and supports 120000 jobs. The formation of the WCO is set to support further exports to the rest of the world, and create sorely needed local jobs and economic growth.”

The WCO’s mission is to discuss common issues affecting citrusproducing countries, exchange information on production and market trends and foster dialogue on policy issues of common concern.

The organisation also aims to identify and promote research and innovation projects specific to the citrus sector; liaise with public and private stakeholders on citrus-related matters to highlight the importance of citrus producers and the need for a fair return; and promote the global consumption of citrus.

The next meeting, where the future structure of the foundation would be formalised, would be in February in Berlin, Chadwick said.