South Africa seeks dialogue with Botswana and Namibia over citrus import ban

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa’s Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, has announced plans to engage with Botswana and Namibia to address the ongoing citrus import ban.

Namibia’s ban, which started in 2021, is set to last until 2025, while Botswana has imposed a temporary restriction on citrus imports from June to August each year.

Both measures aim to support local agriculture but have raised concerns about the impact on cross-border trade.

During the Agri Limpopo congress in Modimolle, Limpopo, Steenhuisen expressed optimism about finding a resolution through dialogue rather than resorting to trade barriers.

“We believe we can find an amicable solution,” Steenhuisen said. “I don’t think we need to end up with a situation where you block our products, and we block yours. I hope we will really be able to sit down with Botswana and Namibia and find a compromise. Our SACU agreement advocates for open borders and industry cooperation, and it’s clear that temporary border closures are not a viable solution.”

Botswana’s recent decision to extend its import ban now includes South African oranges, in addition to previously restricted vegetables.

The ban is set from June 17 to August 31, 2024. This move aligns with Botswana’s strategy to enhance local agricultural production and boost the domestic economy.

The Botswanan government is encouraging local businesses to source oranges from within the country, particularly from the Tuli Block region.

Paul Makube, a senior agricultural economist at FNB, expressed concerns about the broader implications of the import restrictions.

“The expansion of the ban could strain bilateral relations between South Africa and Botswana,” Makube noted.

“It poses significant challenges for South African producers who need to plan their exports and align with regional trade agreements. Collaborative efforts in technology sharing and economic support are crucial for both nations.”

The extended import ban has sparked debate among stakeholders about its impact on the agriculture sector and trade relations within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).

Both South Africa and Botswana will need to navigate these complex issues carefully to maintain strong economic ties and ensure that trade policies support regional integration and growth.