Flooding threatens South Africa’s peak citrus export season

Severe flooding during South Africa’s peak citrus export season has disrupted harvesting, packing and logistics in key production regions, raising concerns over export volumes and fruit quality, according to a USDA FAS GAIN report.

Heavy rainfall hit the Eastern and Western Cape provinces in early May 2026. The report noted that the Gamtoos River Valley in the Eastern Cape, an important citrus-growing area, was among the hardest hit after the Kouga Dam overflowed following intense rain. Floodwaters damaged orchards, roads and agricultural infrastructure.

USDA FAS said the Eastern and Western Cape together account for about 46% of South Africa’s citrus production area. Initial industry estimates cited in the report indicate that between 10% and 12% of citrus production in affected areas may have suffered damage.

The flooding arrived during lemon harvesting and as soft citrus varieties, including mandarins, were entering the export season. Fruit losses were reported from orchards that remained under water, while excessive moisture also increased concerns over fruit quality and disease pressure.

The report said several packinghouses were forced to suspend operations because of flooding, power outages and limited access to production areas. Damage was also reported to orchard netting systems, young trees and internal farm roads.

South Africa exported a record 204 million 15-kg cartons of citrus in 2025, according to USDA FAS. However, the 2026 season now faces additional pressure as growers assess flood damage and work to restore harvesting and packing activities.

Despite the disruption, the report noted that major transport routes in the Western Cape remained operational, helping maintain some export movement, although harvesting and packing schedules have been delayed in several regions.

Read the full report here.

source and graphics: fas.usda.gov