Citrus season in South Africa turns out to be much better than expected

The health crisis and its negative impacts have not endangered the South African citrus season. A bountiful harvest and strong international demand boosted exports.

 

 

 

CGA (Citrus Growers'Association) in its latest report shows clear growth in volumes. According to data stopped at week 38, from PPECB / Agri Hub, the packed volume reached 146.4 million boxes of 15 kg (125.7 million in 2019), the volume shipped 128.6 million boxes of 15 kg (112.1 million boxes in 2019).

 

 

 

At the latest estimate, the total 2020 export volume was forecast at 148.8 million 15 kg boxes. In view of the data recorded, CGA estimates that the total volume for 2020 will approach 150 million boxes.

 

 

 

For South African professionals this season has seen a bountiful harvest, all categories of citrus have exceeded initial estimates, with the exception of grapefruits. The impacts of COVID-19 did not endanger the season. Strong demand from Europe and other countries in the northern hemisphere boosted South African exports.