SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa has formally called on the World Trade Organization (WTO), headquartered in Switzerland, to mediate a disagreement with the European Union (EU) regarding citrus fruit exports.
The core of the matter lies in the phytosanitary trade rules imposed by the EU on South African citrus products.
In a statement, the South African government announced its request for consultations with the EU at the WTO.
This move comes in response to the stringent regulations enforced by the EU on South African citrus growers, particularly concerning citrus black spot (CBS), a fungal infection that affects citrus fruits.
The EU mandates rigorous measures, including an elaborate spray regimen and thorough inspections at orchards and packhouses.
South Africa contends that these measures are excessive and impose significant financial strains on its citrus industry, a sector heavily reliant on the EU market.
The South African government emphasized the necessity of finding a sustainable resolution to the EU’s phytosanitary rules, highlighting the livelihoods of thousands employed in the local citrus industry.
Support for South Africa’s stance comes from the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA), reinforcing the gravity of the issue at hand.
The government reiterated its position, asserting that the EU’s measures against CBS are unjustified. Despite scientific evidence indicating that CBS cannot spread through the fruit itself, the EU continues to enforce stringent protocols on South African citrus growers.
Thoko Didiza, South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, underscored the economic significance of citrus exports, particularly for rural communities reliant on citrus cultivation for their livelihoods.
The financial burden imposed by compliance with EU regulations amounts to nearly R2 billion, posing a substantial challenge to the industry’s sustainability.
Justin Chadwick, CEO of the CGA, expressed optimism about the government’s intervention, emphasizing the need for swift resolution as the citrus export season unfolds.
Chadwick highlighted the potential for substantial growth in the industry, projecting the creation of thousands of jobs and a significant boost in revenue if regulatory hurdles are overcome.
In response to South Africa’s WTO appeal, the EU acknowledged receipt of the consultation request and expressed regret over the escalation of the dispute.
However, the EU affirmed its commitment to engage in consultations with South Africa in good faith, maintaining confidence in the compliance of its legislation with WTO obligations.
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