Citrus growers in South Africa call for urgent tariff negotiations with US

THE Citrus Growers’ Association (CGA) has made a fervent plea to the South African government, urging it to engage in immediate negotiations with the United States regarding potential tariff reductions or exemptions on citrus exports.

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This call to action comes as South African citrus producers brace for the implementation of a hefty additional 30% tariff on their exports to the US, coinciding with the arrival of the early-season citrus intended for the American market.

About 35 000 jobs are connected to SA citrus exports in one way or another.

CEO of the CGA, Boitshoko Ntshabele, on Tuesday said increases in exports to the US are one of the cornerstones of the CGA’s target to create 100 000 additional jobs by 2032.

“We are now looking at a potential situation wherein not only will we be facing job losses, but we also lose the potential of serious job growth – a double tragedy,” Ntshabele said.

“The SA government should urgently work towards a new trade agreement with the US, but such agreements can take years, and who do not currently have the time. The 2024 season has already arrived, and the product is making its way to the ports.”