South Africa Becomes World’s Largest Citrus Exporter by Volume as Steenhuisen Praises Agricultural Sector
Farmers Magazine | 15.05.2026 14:59South Africa has reached a major milestone in global agriculture after officially overtaking Spain as the world’s largest citrus exporter by volume in 2025, with exports reaching 2.9 million tons. Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has publicly congratulated farmers, farm workers, and all value-chain partners for their role in achieving this record-breaking performance. He described the achievement as a national success that reflects years of coordination, investment, and discipline across the agricultural sector. The development places South Africa in a leading position in global citrus trade and highlights the strength of its export systems. It also reflects the resilience of a sector that continues to grow under challenging global conditions.