South African orange exports face increased phytosanitary controls in the EU

The European Union has recorded 15 interceptions of citrus black spot in shipments from South Africa so far in 2026, raising concerns about the risk to the European citrus sector.

In 2026, South African citrus exports to the European Union have faced increased scrutiny after 15 cases of citrus black spot (Phyllosticta citricarpa) were detected in shipments, including one shipment of oranges, up to early August. The majority of interceptions in July involved lemons (six cases), but the detection in oranges highlights ongoing phytosanitary risks. The EU remains a major destination for South African oranges during the southern hemisphere export season, which is currently at its midpoint.

South Africa has previously suspended exports to the EU as a preventive measure in past seasons, but this has typically occurred after the main shipping period. The current situation has prompted calls from European producer groups for the European Commission to strengthen controls and potentially limit imports from South Africa to prevent further spread of the disease, which is considered a major threat to European citrus production.

Argentina, another key citrus exporter to Europe, also recorded new phytosanitary interceptions in July 2026, though the majority were associated with lemons. Both South Africa and Argentina are the principal southern hemisphere suppliers of oranges to the EU during the European off-season, directly impacting the availability and competitive landscape in the European market, including Poland.

Spain, the largest EU producer of fresh citrus, is monitoring the spread of Citrus Yellow Vein Clearing Virus (CYVCV), detected for the first time in Spain in late 2025 and now present in Catalonia, Valencia, Murcia, and Andalusia. While the virus primarily affects lemons and limes, oranges and mandarins can carry the virus asymptomatically, raising concerns about potential future impacts on Spanish citrus supply and trade. There is currently no curative treatment for CYVCV, and authorities recommend uprooting infected trees.

The ongoing phytosanitary issues in major supplier countries may influence import volumes, quality, and price levels for oranges in European markets, including Poland, as buyers monitor developments in both the southern and northern hemispheres.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker · Illustrative image generated by AI