Netherlands dominated with 18.6% of South African citrus exports in 2023, outpacing other countries

The Netherlands led with 18.6% of South Africa’s citrus exports in 2023.
The U.S. accounted for 5.8% of South Africa’s citrus exports, a small share compared to Europe and UAE.
South African citrus exports to the U.S. in 2023 was valued at $141 million.
Other markets, like the UK and UAE, played a larger role in South Africa’s citrus trade.
Market diversity may reduce the impact of the trending U.S. tariff on South Africa’s overall citrus export.

In 2023, South Africa’s citrus exports to the U.S. reached $141 million, accounting for just 5.8% of its total citrus exports. In contrast, the Netherlands received a larger share, with $450 million in citrus exports, making up 18.6% of South Africa’s total citrus trade. This stark difference highlights the U.S. as a smaller market for South African citrus compared to Europe. While the recent tariffs may affect South Africa, the U.S. remains an important, but secondary, destination for South African citrus.

Source:

Observatory of Economic Complexity

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Period:

2023

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