Surge in citrus pest interceptions from South Africa as EU import season begins
June 2026 saw an increase of 66% in pest and disease interceptions in citrus shipments to the EU from third countries, with South Africa accounting for over half of all detections at the start of its export season.
According to official EU notifications, 15 interceptions of pests and diseases were recorded in citrus shipments from third countries in June 2026, up from 9 in June 2025. South Africa, which has just started its citrus export campaign to Europe, was responsible for eight of these cases. Seven interceptions were due to citrus black spot (Phyllosticta citricarpa) found in lemon consignments, and one case involved false codling moth (Thaumatotibia leucotreta) in grapefruit.
Eswatini, a neighboring country to South Africa, also recorded two interceptions of citrus black spot in grapefruit shipments in June. Argentina had one interception for the same disease. The total number of Phyllosticta interceptions from all third countries doubled year-on-year, reaching ten cases by June 2026 compared to five in the same period of 2025.
The rapid increase in South African citrus imports into the EU coincides with the first phase of the season, before the main shipping volumes have begun. European producer organizations have warned of a heightened phytosanitary risk for EU citrus growers, especially since citrus black spot is not present in commercial European groves. Calls have been made to extend the EU's mandatory cold-treatment protocol, currently required for oranges, to include other citrus types such as lemons, mandarins, and grapefruit from South Africa.
Meanwhile, Australian citrus is reported to be in excellent condition this winter, with South Australian growers supplying a wide range of high-quality mandarins, lemons, and oranges. Demand for seedless and easy-peel varieties is strong, and exporters are increasing their focus on convenience-oriented products for foodservice and retail channels.
The United States is projecting an 11% increase in orange production for the 2025/26 season, reaching 63.5 million boxes. Florida, in particular, is showing recovery with a 5% increase in orange output and a 34% rise in lemon production. This increase in US supply may affect the competitive landscape for citrus imports into the EU and other markets, including Poland.
Mercosur countries have also seen an uptick in pest interceptions on citrus exports to the EU, raising further concerns among European producers about biosecurity and the impact of increased imports.
Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker