South Africa has officially overtaken Spain to become the world’s largest citrus exporter by volume, after shipping 2.9 million tonnes of citrus in 2025.
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) said the milestone reflects years of investment in orchards, production methods and export infrastructure. The industry body added that South Africa’s export-focused model has helped it strengthen its position in global markets.
However, the CGA stressed that the achievement comes with growing pressure on farmers and exporters.
South Africa’s citrus boom
Unlike countries such as China, Brazil and Spain, which consume large amounts of their own fruit locally, South Africa relies heavily on exports. The country’s citrus industry has built a reputation for meeting strict international health and sustainability standards, while supplying markets during the northern hemisphere’s summer months.
According to the CGA, South Africa and Spain continue to play “highly complementary roles” in the global citrus trade rather than directly competing year-round.
CGA CEO Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele said the citrus industry’s performance was driven by “sustained investment in orchards and production techniques.”
But he warned that producers remain under pressure from rising costs and global instability.
“Currently the impact of the situation in the Middle East on fuel costs and shipping routes is a concern which is placing significant pressure on grower margins,” Ntshabele said.
Industry still faces pressure
Despite the export record, the CGA said growers are dealing with several ongoing challenges.
“Growers also face unpredictable price and market dynamics, rising input costs, as well as market access issues such as high tariffs and unscientific plant health measures,” Ntshabele explained.
The citrus industry body is pushing for improved access to key export destinations, including the EU, US, India and China. It believes this will be crucial as production volumes continue to grow.
The CGA’s long-term Vision 260 strategy aims to increase exports to 260 million cartons by 2032.
Ntshabele said the sector remains vital to rural economies across South Africa.
“The citrus industry in South Africa supports at least 140 000 jobs on farm and packhouse level alone,” he added.
“It forms the heart of many rural economies throughout the country – from Letsitele, in Limpopo, to Addo, in the Eastern Cape, to Citrusdal, in the Western Cape.”
