According to the Citrus Growers’ Association, the combination of fair weather and high demand for fruit was what contributed to this growth.

“In the 2025 export season, Southern African citrus growers packed 203.4 million 15kg cartons for delivery to global markets. This represents a significant 19% increase from the original estimate in April, which was 171.2 million cartons. It represents a 22% increase from the packed-for-export figures in 2024. Driving the growth is a combination of favourable weather conditions in the growing regions and the many young trees that came into fruit this season,” said CEO Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele. “Furthermore, unforeseen factors that contributed to the record-breaking performance include the exceptional demand in overseas markets for processing-grade juicing oranges and juicing lemons.”

Darul Ihsan Media Desk