A vibrant orange orchard scene in Africa featuring a farmer on a tractor harvesting ripe oranges on a sunny day.
South Africa’s citrus industry is cautiously optimistic heading into its 2026 export season, forecasting shipments of 210 to 215 million cartons. This marks a potential 5% increase on last year’s record 203.4 million cartons. The country, the world’s second-largest citrus exporter after Spain, begins its season in April, sending oranges, lemons, grapefruit, and mandarins primarily to European markets and the Middle East. However, the Iran war is casting a long shadow, threatening shipping routes, fuel availability, and regional demand. The government’s temporary fuel levy cut offers short-term relief, yet uncertainty around energy prices and logistics continues to loom large. While exporters may benefit from higher volumes, rising input costs could erode profits. In the longer term, the sector’s resilience will depend on how well it navigates global shocks while maintaining its competitive edge in key markets.
CNBC Africa