SOUTH AFRICA – The Citrus Growers’ Association (CGA) has taken a pointed step forward by applying for the renewal of the citrus levy, aiming to administer it for the next four years.
This application, made to the Minister of Agriculture through the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC), signifies a commitment to the sustainable growth of the citrus industry.
Following a meticulous process, the CGA’s levy proposal underwent thorough scrutiny and discussion. The CGA Board approved the levy business plan, paving the way for discussions at fourteen grower meetings across South Africa.
These meetings provided a platform for robust discussions, ensuring that all stakeholders’ voices were heard and considered.
Transparency remained paramount throughout the process, with the CGA ensuring that growers were actively engaged and informed.
Once the grower meetings concluded, the Board finalized the application, which is now under review by the NAMC. As part of this review, the application will be published for public comments, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and transparency.
Growers will be notified when the publication is open for comments, allowing for further input from the community. After analyzing the comments, a comprehensive report will be submitted to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) for final approval.
“CGA will alert growers when this publication is open for comments. Once the comments have
been analysed, a final report is sent to the NAMC for approval and submission to the Department of
Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD),” stated Justin Chadwick, CEO at CGA in his latest newsletter.
The outcome of this renewal process holds significant implications for citrus growers and exporters. By actively participating in this process, stakeholders can shape the future of the industry and ensure its continued growth and sustainability.
Lemon season outlook and export strategy
Amidst these developments, the 2024 South African lemon season has garnered considerable interest, with a recent lemon tracking session attracting a substantial turnout of 80 participants. The session, facilitated by SAFRESCO and presented by Anya Jaworski, focused on predicting supply and demand dynamics in the EU market.
The lemon tracking model provides exporters with valuable insights, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding export planning.
With the EU market projected to experience oversupply in the coming weeks, exporters must strategize accordingly to optimize their market presence and leverage opportunities.
In tandem with these discussions, recent developments in citrus trade have emphasized the importance of international cooperation and diplomacy.
The European Commission’s decision not to extend cold treatment requirements for citrus fruits from South Africa reflects ongoing efforts to address trade disputes and uphold fair trade practices.
South Africa’s formal request to the World Trade Organization (WTO) for mediation highlights the commitment to resolving trade disputes through established mechanisms.
While concerns over phytosanitary trade rules persist, the decision to maintain the current protocol for South African citrus fruits signifies a positive development for the industry.
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