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

Period:

2023
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