Prospects are positive for the 2022 South African citrus export season, with volumes expected to rise for most varieties and growth estimated at 4%.
CGA (Citrus Growers' Association), based on forecast volumes from different citrus growing regions across the country, has estimated export volumes for the 2022 season:
.Lemons: approximately 32.3 million boxes (15 kg) will be exported, an increase of 1.3 million boxes compared to last season.
.Navel Oranges: approximately 28.7 million boxes (15kg) will be exported, an increase of 1.5 million boxes compared to last season
.Valencia Oranges: approximately 58.2 million (15 kg) will be exported in 2022, an increase of 3.2 million cartons compared to last season.
.Grapefruit: approximately 14.8 million boxes (17 kg) will be exported.
But these predictions might undergo some changes due to weather and market conditions. Thus, Russia being a major importer of South African grapefruits, the result could evolve negatively.
South African professionals believe that the key markets for this season will be the United States and India, which have the potential to increase the volumes they import.