South Africa lowers citrus export forecast and faces phytosanitary challenges in EU market
South Africa has revised its 2026 citrus export forecast down to 205.3 million 15-kg boxes due to lower expectations for mandarins, Navel oranges, and grapefruits, while lemon volumes rise.
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa has reduced its 2026 export estimate to 205.3 million 15-kg boxes, down from the initial 209.4 million. The decrease is mainly attributed to lower projections for mandarins (down 2.7 million boxes), Navel oranges (down 4.6 million), and grapefruits (down 1.7 million). Lemon exports are expected to increase by 5.4 million boxes over the initial forecast. The Valencia orange forecast is stable, with northern regions offsetting lower yields in the Eastern and Western Cape. The Valencia packing peak is anticipated in the next two to three weeks, and the season may be extended. Juice processors are currently absorbing significant volumes of fruit. The South African citrus season has ended in most production zones, with the Eastern Cape remaining active for lemons.
South African citrus shipments to the EU have encountered phytosanitary issues, with 15 interceptions of citrus black spot (Phyllosticta citricarpa) reported so far in 2026, including seven in July. Six of these July interceptions involved lemons and one involved oranges. The risk of further interceptions remains as South Africa is at the midpoint of its EU export campaign. Previous seasons saw export suspensions announced by South Africa after the shipping period ended, but EU organizations are now calling for stricter controls during the campaign.
Spain’s citrus sector is facing threats from the spread of Citrus Yellow Vein Clearing Virus (CYVCV), first detected in 2025 and now present in Catalonia, Comunidad Valenciana, Murcia, and Andalucía. Spain remains the world’s second-largest lemon producer after Argentina and the leading exporter of fresh lemons, with 54,055 hectares of lemon groves. The spread of CYVCV is causing concern due to its impact on lemon and lime quality and yields, and the lack of curative treatments may affect future supply and trade dynamics.
Spanish research institutions are focusing on sustainable production, with integrated pest management programs for clementines and new natural solutions to combat fungal diseases in oranges. These initiatives respond to growing European retail demand for residue-free citrus and could influence the competitiveness of Spanish citrus on export markets, including Poland.
Mercosur countries, including Argentina, have also reported new citrus shipment interceptions in the EU due to phytosanitary concerns. This adds to the competitive and regulatory pressures facing non-EU citrus exporters in the European market in the 2026 season.
Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker · Illustrative image generated by AI