The South African citrus industry has received a significant boost with the announcement of new US tariff exemptions that include oranges, providing much-needed relief for growers ahead of the 2026 export season.
Tariff Exemption Brings Relief
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) welcomed the development, highlighting the positive impact this will have on the industry’s competitiveness in the American market.
South Africa exported 4.3 million 15-kilogram cartons of oranges to the US during the past season, demonstrating the significant trade relationship between the two countries. Whilst the 2025 season has already concluded, the exemption is expected to provide substantial benefits for the upcoming 2026 season, which typically begins around April.
Limited Impact of Previous Tariffs
The 30% US tariffs on South African imports, which came into effect in August 2025, had a relatively limited impact on citrus exports due to their timing. The tariffs were implemented towards the end of South Africa’s 2025 export season, allowing growers to increase and fast-track shipments before the deadline.
According to the CGA, this strategic response helped minimise the potential damage to the industry during what could have been a challenging period.
Also read: Citrus growers appeal to Ramaphosa for urgent US trade intervention
Industry Leaders Express Optimism
Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele, CEO of the CGA, emphasised the importance of the South Africa-US partnership in citrus supply chains.
“South Africa has been a partner to the US in citrus supply for many years. During their summertime, when their own growers are out of season, we supply them with quality citrus. This keeps consumers in the category, ensuring stability and access to affordable imported fruit,” Dr Ntshabele explained.
CGA Chairperson Gerrit van der Merwe, who is also a citrus grower in Citrusdal in the Western Cape, highlighted the broader economic benefits of this trade relationship.
“Supply steadiness is not a luxury; it is a vital hedge against volatility for the American citrus industry, and an example of how global trade benefits everyday American consumers. Citrus as a fresh, healthy product is also uniquely valuable. It helps keep Americans healthy,” said Van der Merwe.
Also read: 30% US tariff: ‘There is still time to negotiate a better deal’
Relief for Farming Communities
The announcement has brought considerable relief to South African citrus farming communities, particularly in areas like Citrusdal where uncertainty about future exports had created anxiety amongst growers.
“This announcement takes some pressure off our community. There will be some big smiles on the farm this week. We have been deeply concerned about the future of our valley for many months,” Van der Merwe added.
Concerns Remain for Mandarin Exports
Whilst celebrating the orange exemption, the CGA has raised concerns about mandarins (soft citrus varieties), which remain subject to tariffs. These varieties have proven popular in the US market, creating a complex situation for South African exporters.
Dr Ntshabele advocated extending the current exemption to include mandarins and other citrus varieties, noting that “they share similar market dynamics and supply chain vulnerabilities.” The CEO warned that applying tariffs specifically to mandarins “risks creating price spikes, supply shortages and inflationary pressures” in the US market.
Also read: SA citrus exports hit record 203 million cartons – now industry eyes 100 000 new jobs
Growing Market Demand
The appetite for South African citrus in the US has shown remarkable growth over recent years. According to CGA data, citrus exports from South Africa to the US have nearly doubled since 2017, demonstrating the strength of this trade partnership.
This growth trajectory underscores the potential for further expansion, provided trade conditions remain favourable.
