South African citrus producers and their workers are already feeling the effects of the new United States import tariffs.
A lengthy article in the Daily Maverick detailed how uncertainty about future tariffs and the prospect of diminished US sales under those already in force was affecting citrus producers.
“Across the country’s three citrus strongholds — Limpopo (40% of production), Eastern Cape (25%), and the Western Cape (15%) — the impact of the tariff is already being felt,” it reported.
“Fertiliser purchases are being delayed, pruning schedules deferred, and replanting plans shelved. Seasonal workers, particularly those involved in harvesting and packing, face an uncertain future.”
The US is a premium destination for South African citrus, which used to arrive duty-free under the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA legislation).
In 2024, South Africa shipped nearly 100 000 tons of citrus to the US, about 5% to 6% of the country’s total citrus output. That generated more than $100 million in export earnings and supported 35 000 direct and indirect jobs.
“Where South African citrus once enjoyed duty-free access to US shelves, it must now clear a cost barrier of approximately $6,000 (R116,000) per container,” the Daily Maverick reported
“According to the Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa, this equates to about $4.50 (R87) per carton — a cost that not only erodes margins but calls into question the viability of the entire trade route.”
Workers are already feeling the pinch, with reports of shortening shifts, fewer weekend hours and the postponement of annual bonuses.
“In some cases, cooperatives are asking employees to take voluntary unpaid leave to match lower shipment volumes. The Food and Allied Workers Union (Fawu) has called for urgent government support and warned that inaction could lead to unrest in vulnerable citrus-growing communities,” the Daily Maverick reported.
