SA citrus industry urge swift negotiations to exempt seasonal produce from US tariffs

THE Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa (CGA) on Wednesday sounded the alarm over impending tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump, which could impose a substantial 30% levy on South African exports starting 1 August, should no trade agreement be reached.

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

The call for an exemption specifically targeting seasonal fresh produce underlines the potential economic devastation facing South Africa's citrus farming communities, particularly if their products become uncompetitive in the American market.

In a statement, the CGA expressed solidarity with Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, who welcomed the challenge to negotiate a trade deal beneficial to both countries during his Budget Vote Address on Tuesday.

The CGA noted that South Africa must act swiftly in the coming weeks to secure its crucial trade relationships. In his speech, Steenhuisen emphasized the importance of the agricultural sector in job creation, a sentiment echoed by the CGA leadership.

"We agreed with the Minister, as he stated in the opening of the address, that South Africa now has an opportunity to use the next few weeks to urgently negotiate and conclude a deal that benefits both parties," said Gerrit van der Merwe, chairperson of the CGA.