South African citrus exporters have secured an important breakthrough in India after authorities there approved additional cold-treatment methods for fresh citrus. The decision follows nearly a decade of negotiations and gives exporters greater flexibility in handling fruit, potentially improving quality when shipments arrive in the Indian market. India, with a population of about 1.47 billion, represents a significant growth opportunity for South African producers. However, tariffs remain a major obstacle. Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa CEO Boitshoko Ntshabele said duties of roughly 25% to 30% leave South African exporters at a disadvantage against Southern Hemisphere competitors with preferential trade arrangements. The industry now wants the government to use the technical breakthrough as a foundation for negotiations aimed at lowering tariffs and improving commercial competitiveness.