Citrus fruits: growth will continue

In South Africa, growth in citrus production will continue in 2019, thanks to the expansion of planted areas, favorable conditions and strong demand. Exports account for 79% of total citrus production.

According to USDA in a recent GAIN report, orange production in South Africa is forecast to increase by 5% to 1.6 million tonnes, mainly due to the increase in planted area. Exports are forecast to increase by 4% to 1.3 million tonnes, driven by growth in demand from China and Hong Kong.

Grapefruit production is forecast to increase by 7% to 450 000 tonnes in the 2018/19 season, due to the many new plantings. Exports are forecast to increase by 8%, or 310,000 tonnes, due to strong demand in global markets, particularly in Asia and some EU countries.

Mandarin production is expected to increase by 7% to 300,000 tonnes, due to the entry into production of the new plantations. Mandarin exports are expected to increase by 7% to 280,000 tonnes.

The harvest of lemons and limes is expected to increase by 4% to 480 000 tonnes, because of the increase in areas and the entry into full production of new plantations. Exports are forecast to increase by 5% to 330,000 tonnes, driven by growing demand in the Middle East and Asian markets.

source: fas usda gov