THE FUSE

South Africa has claimed the position of the world’s largest citrus exporter by volume after recording an exceptional export season in 2025. The country overtook Spain after South African growers packed 203.4 million 15-kilogram cartons for export, representing an increase of almost 39 million cartons compared with 2024. The achievement marks a significant milestone for South Africa’s agricultural sector and highlights the scale and competitiveness of its citrus industry. Speaking at the 13th Citrus Research International Symposium at the Champagne Sports Resort in the Drakensberg, Minister of Agriculture Willie Aucamp confirmed the record performance and its importance to the country’s agricultural economy. The result places South Africa at the forefront of the global citrus export market while creating a stronger platform for future growth.