Latest news with #CitrusGrowers'AssociationofSouthernAfrica
The Hill
4 days ago
- Business
- The Hill
South African citrus growers face uncertainty amid proposed 30 percent US tariffs
The winter months in South Africa's Olifants River Valley are cold, wet and green. There are waterfalls in the nearby Cederberg and Winterhoek mountains, and the landscape below is blanketed by citrus orchards. Surrounding the town of Citrusdal, farmhouses and packhouses dot the landscape, defining one of the agricultural jewels of South Africa's Western Cape province. But this winter is very different from previous ones. When I speak to the orchard workers, packhouse managers and various technicians on our family's farm, their concern is clear. I myself, an eighth generation citrus grower, am deeply worried about the future of our community. Storm clouds are on the horizon. On July 7 the U.S. announced a planned 30 percent tariff on South African imports starting Aug. 1. This came after no final trade deal could be reached between South Africa and the U.S. following the Trump administration's reciprocal tariff announcement of April 2. Our valley shows how the tariff turmoil can have extremely disruptive consequences. The local citrus farms have proudly been exporting world-class fresh citrus to the U.S. for decades. Especially the mandarins and oranges produced here finds its way onto many U.S. store shelves. American consumers have started to develop a pronounced taste for South African citrus. Since 2017 our exports have almost doubled. The looming 30 percent tariff now threatens these exports. It would make our citrus completely uncompetitive in the U.S. This would not only wreak economic havoc in our community, it would have negative consequences for the U.S. citrus consumer as well. Organizations such as the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa still believe a mutually beneficial trade deal between the U.S. and South Africa is possible, but time is on nobody's side, with the Aug.1 deadline around the corner. A practical option for consideration by the U.S. would also be to exempt seasonal fresh produce from these tariffs. Seasonal fresh produce holds a unique space within the current trade turmoil, and an exemption makes sense. Seasonal produce is not like a product produced year-round in a factory. Citrus cannot be 'in-sourced.' South Africa, as a counter-seasonal producer, does not threaten U.S. citrus growers or U.S. jobs. In fact, our produce sustains demand when U.S. citrus is out of season, which benefits U.S. growers when we 'hand over' consumers at the end of our season, around October. We also add unique varieties to the U.S. market, significantly increasing consumer choice. These varieties cannot easily be replaced by our competitors, such as Chile, Peru and Australia, even though they are not facing tariffs as high as we are. Disturbing the supply of citrus to the U.S. could also lead to an increase in price for the U.S. consumer. This type of food inflation has consequences. With citrus — a main source of Vitamin C and many other nutrients — there is a health dimension to take into account as well. We help keep America healthy. The middle of the 2025 citrus season has just been reached. Fruit is being picked, packed and shipped on our farm. Our conveyor belts are humming and the trucks are leaving for the Port of Cape Town, 176 kilometers to the south. In total, South Africa planned to send over 7 million 15-kilogram cartons of citrus to the U.S. this season, but if the tariffs are implemented on the Aug. 1, we will have to deal with a devastating new reality. Fruit is usually grown for specific markets — meaning everything, from the choice of variety to sizing, from required plant health protocols to the timing of the picking, is market-specific. Because of this, it is not as simple as diverting citrus to another market. Even if some diversion could be managed, increasing supply to other countries could oversupply those markets and collapse the price, with a knock-on effect on the entire citrus industry. Either way, a 30 percent tariff means hard times ahead for our community. South Africa struggles with high levels of unemployment. The local fear is that a trade setback of this size could tip Citrusdal and the entire Cederberg municipality into extreme poverty and instability. The effect this would have on the already high levels of violent crime in our province is terrible to contemplate. But the effect is, once again, not only local. South African citrus producers have built up relationships and networks in the U.S. over decades. The tariffs would also mean immense uncertainty for stakeholders in the U.S. fresh produce chain, including logistics. While 35,000 jobs are directly dependent on U.S. citrus exports in South Africa, the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa estimates that almost 20,000 jobs up and down the supply chain in the U.S. are in some way connected to the U.S.-South African citrus trade. The Olifants River Valley is staring down a completely disrupted citrus season in the face. We have weathered floods, pests, logistical crisis and even political unrest — always securing a supply of high-quality citrus to the U.S. during their summer months. Unless a trade solution is found soon, this winter's storm could very well be the one we'll not weather.
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
US tariffs on South Africa set to hit white farmers Trump has embraced
By Wendell Roelf CITRUSDAL, South Africa (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump's threatened 30% tariff on South African exports is set to deal an economic blow to a community he has vocally and controversially championed: white farmers. Citing false claims that white South Africans are being persecuted, Trump has cut aid to the country, publicly berated its president in the Oval Office and invited Afrikaners - descendants of early European settlers - to come to the United States as refugees. But for white farmers who remain rooted in their homeland and aspire to keep making a living from the land, the tariffs due to come into effect on August 1 are an assault on those ambitions. "It doesn't make sense to us to welcome South African farmers in America and then the rest that stays behind ... to punish them," said Krisjan Mouton, a sixth-generation farmer in Western Cape province's citrus heartland. "It's going to have a huge impact," he said, standing among rows of trees heavy with navel oranges on his farm near the town of Citrusdal. "It's not profitable to export anymore to the USA." After a three-month pause, Trump escalated the global trade offensive he launched in April, announcing tariffs on more than a dozen countries on Monday, including South Africa. Its citrus fruit, along with wine, soybeans, sugar cane and beef, had previously benefited from duty-free access to the U.S. under the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act. Helped by that trade initiative, South Africa, the world's second-largest citrus exporter after Spain, generates $100 million annually from the U.S. market. The new tariff ends that preferential treatment. And with three-quarters of South Africa's freehold land white-owned, white farmers will face the immediate economic fallout though they will not be the only casualties. Boitshoko Ntshabele, chief executive of the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) said the levy will hurt all South African farmers and farm workers, no matter their race. "A 30% tariff would wreak havoc on communities that have, for decades, focused on producing specifically for the U.S. market," he said. 'FARMERS WILL GO BANKRUPT' Its location in the Southern Hemisphere means South Africa produces citrus at times of the year when the U.S. doesn't, with its exports giving U.S. consumers year-round access to fruit. While the United States accounts for only around 6% of South Africa's citrus exports, some farming areas produce specifically for the U.S. market. Redirecting produce grown for the U.S. to other markets is not simple, as size and plant health requirements vary from country to country. Nestled in a valley in Western Cape's rugged Cederberg mountains, Mouton's family farm employs 21 permanent workers, and nearly triple that number during peak picking season. The CGA has said about 35,000 jobs are at risk in Citrusdal alone, as the tariffs risk making South African citrus uncompetitive compared to fruit from Peru, Chile, and Australia. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has said trade talks with Washington will continue and argued that the 30% rate was based on an inaccurate understanding of the two countries' trade. In the meantime though, the CGA wants to speed up an expansion of exports to new markets including China and India. High tariffs in some countries and stringent plant health requirements in the European Union, for example, make that a complicated prospect, however. Not far from Mouton's farm, workers are carrying on as usual, for now, sorting and packing fruit at the 14,000-square-metre Goede Hoop Citrus warehouse. But if the 30% levy remains in place, that won't last long, managing director Andre Nel told Reuters. "Farmers will go bankrupt. For sure there would be job losses within our sector," he said. "I don't even want to think about it." ($1 = 17.8568 rand)
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
US tariffs on South Africa set to hit white farmers Trump has embraced
By Wendell Roelf CITRUSDAL, South Africa (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump's threatened 30% tariff on South African exports is set to deal an economic blow to a community he has vocally and controversially championed: white farmers. Citing false claims that white South Africans are being persecuted, Trump has cut aid to the country, publicly berated its president in the Oval Office and invited Afrikaners - descendants of early European settlers - to come to the United States as refugees. But for white farmers who remain rooted in their homeland and aspire to keep making a living from the land, the tariffs due to come into effect on August 1 are an assault on those ambitions. "It doesn't make sense to us to welcome South African farmers in America and then the rest that stays behind ... to punish them," said Krisjan Mouton, a sixth-generation farmer in Western Cape province's citrus heartland. "It's going to have a huge impact," he said, standing among rows of trees heavy with navel oranges on his farm near the town of Citrusdal. "It's not profitable to export anymore to the USA." After a three-month pause, Trump escalated the global trade offensive he launched in April, announcing tariffs on more than a dozen countries on Monday, including South Africa. Its citrus fruit, along with wine, soybeans, sugar cane and beef, had previously benefited from duty-free access to the U.S. under the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act. Helped by that trade initiative, South Africa, the world's second-largest citrus exporter after Spain, generates $100 million annually from the U.S. market. The new tariff ends that preferential treatment. And with three-quarters of South Africa's freehold land white-owned, white farmers will face the immediate economic fallout though they will not be the only casualties. Boitshoko Ntshabele, chief executive of the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) said the levy will hurt all South African farmers and farm workers, no matter their race. "A 30% tariff would wreak havoc on communities that have, for decades, focused on producing specifically for the U.S. market," he said. 'FARMERS WILL GO BANKRUPT' Its location in the Southern Hemisphere means South Africa produces citrus at times of the year when the U.S. doesn't, with its exports giving U.S. consumers year-round access to fruit. While the United States accounts for only around 6% of South Africa's citrus exports, some farming areas produce specifically for the U.S. market. Redirecting produce grown for the U.S. to other markets is not simple, as size and plant health requirements vary from country to country. Nestled in a valley in Western Cape's rugged Cederberg mountains, Mouton's family farm employs 21 permanent workers, and nearly triple that number during peak picking season. The CGA has said about 35,000 jobs are at risk in Citrusdal alone, as the tariffs risk making South African citrus uncompetitive compared to fruit from Peru, Chile, and Australia. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has said trade talks with Washington will continue and argued that the 30% rate was based on an inaccurate understanding of the two countries' trade. In the meantime though, the CGA wants to speed up an expansion of exports to new markets including China and India. High tariffs in some countries and stringent plant health requirements in the European Union, for example, make that a complicated prospect, however. Not far from Mouton's farm, workers are carrying on as usual, for now, sorting and packing fruit at the 14,000-square-metre Goede Hoop Citrus warehouse. But if the 30% levy remains in place, that won't last long, managing director Andre Nel told Reuters. "Farmers will go bankrupt. For sure there would be job losses within our sector," he said. "I don't even want to think about it." ($1 = 17.8568 rand)
Business Standard
02-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa Launches Promotional Campaign in India
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], July 2: For many years South Africa has been a dependable and beloved supplier of citrus to India. To strengthen this relationship, a new marketing campaign has been launched in India to boost consumer awareness, stimulate demand, and highlight the superior quality, taste, and health benefits of premium South African citrus fruits. The campaign not only introduces new Indian consumers to the unique character of some of the world's finest citrus but also builds on the friendship and trade ties between South Africa and India - two nations connected by deep historical, cultural and economic bonds. The wider enjoyment of fresh and tasty citrus fruits will be an expression of these valued bonds. Spearheaded by Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa, the campaign will strengthen connections between Indian consumers, importers, and retailers, and the passionate South African growers who grow citrus in some of the most scenic valleys in Africa. As Indian households increasingly prioritise healthier food choices, South African citrus stands out as a naturally delicious source of nutrition, such as Vitamin C. Running throughout the peak import season, the campaign features a mix of in-store promotions, product sampling, chef and influencer partnerships, social media engagement, and strategic collaborations with leading retailers and distributors - ensuring high visibility and strong recall at the point of purchase. "We are energised and motivated to bring the freshness, flavour, and natural goodness of South African citrus to Indian consumers," said Sachin Khurana, India Representative of the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa. "This campaign celebrates not only the beautiful fruit from the beautiful country, but also the exceptional taste of the fruit." India has become one of the key growth markets for citrus imports, driven by rising incomes, evolving lifestyles, and greater interest in health-conscious diets. Recognising this opportunity, the campaign will actively engage with key stakeholders across the Indian fresh produce supply chain to ensure access and availability across retail and wholesale channels. Retail promotions will go live across leading retail chains and quick-commerce platforms in key metropolitan areas and tier-II cities, showcasing the vibrancy and zest of South African citrus. In addition, this campaign will also feature multiple activations in leading wholesale markets, ensuring wide availability while reinforcing South Africa's well-earned reputation as a trusted supplier of premium citrus.
Fashion Value Chain
01-07-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa Launches Promotional Campaign in India
For many years South Africa has been a dependable and beloved supplier of citrus to India. To strengthen this relationship, a new marketing campaign has been launched in India to boost consumer awareness, stimulate demand, and highlight the superior quality, taste, and health benefits of premium South African citrus fruits. Beautiful Country, Beautiful Fruit, Exceptional Taste The campaign not only introduces new Indian consumers to the unique character of some of the world's finest citrus but also builds on the friendship and trade ties between South Africa and India – two nations connected by deep historical, cultural and economic bonds. The wider enjoyment of fresh and tasty citrus fruits will be an expression of these valued bonds. Spearheaded by Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa, the campaign will strengthen connections between Indian consumers, importers, and retailers, and the passionate South African growers who grow citrus in some of the most scenic valleys in Africa. As Indian households increasingly prioritise healthier food choices, South African citrus stands out as a naturally delicious source of nutrition, such as Vitamin C. Running throughout the peak import season, the campaign features a mix of in-store promotions, product sampling, chef and influencer partnerships, social media engagement, and strategic collaborations with leading retailers and distributors – ensuring high visibility and strong recall at the point of purchase. 'We are energised and motivated to bring the freshness, flavour, and natural goodness of South African citrus to Indian consumers,' said Sachin Khurana, India Representative of the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa. 'This campaign celebrates not only the beautiful fruit from the beautiful country, but also the exceptional taste of the fruit.' India has become one of the key growth markets for citrus imports, driven by rising incomes, evolving lifestyles, and greater interest in health-conscious diets. Recognising this opportunity, the campaign will actively engage with key stakeholders across the Indian fresh produce supply chain to ensure access and availability across retail and wholesale channels. Retail promotions will go live across leading retail chains and quick-commerce platforms in key metropolitan areas and tier-II cities, showcasing the vibrancy and zest of South African citrus. In addition, this campaign will also feature multiple activations in leading wholesale markets, ensuring wide availability while reinforcing South Africa's well-earned reputation as a trusted supplier of premium citrus.
