Record Citrus Exports Highlight South Africa’s Strong Sector Performance

South Africa’s citrus industry reached a major milestone in 2025. New data from the Department of Agriculture confirmed that growers delivered 203.4 million cartons to global markets. You saw a 22 percent jump from the 2024 export season. This is a clear sign of sector growth and strong market demand.

The Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, applauded the achievement. He said the results reflect the resilience and planning of growers, workers and industry leaders. You can see the impact in the numbers. More than 203 million cartons left the country as fresh fruit. The sector created new jobs and expanded foreign earnings.

South Africa is now the second largest citrus exporter in the world. Only Spain ranks higher. Two thirds of local citrus output is exported as fresh fruit. These exports generate 95 percent of the industry’s annual earnings. The results support job creation and rural economic activity.

Citrus remains the top export performer within the agricultural sector. Its growth strengthens the wider fruit industry. The minister noted that the industry stabilised the national economy during difficult periods, including the COVID-19 crisis. This track record shows how vital the sector is to the country’s long term economic health.

The Department of Agriculture plans to expand its support. The minister confirmed that government will work with growers to address logistics, improve retention of key markets and open new export pathways. Better market access will help producers grow output and boost foreign exchange earnings.

The 2025 export season positions the citrus industry for continued expansion. The strong performance shows what coordinated planning and consistent investment can achieve.