South Africa’s Department of Agriculture (DoA) and the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) have welcomed the successful amendment of the plant health protocol governing the export of the country’s citrus to China, calling it an “important step forward” for the industry.
“This development is expected to deliver tangible benefits across the value chain – both in China and in South Africa,” the CGA stated.
The amended protocol introduces additional phytosanitary pest risk mitigation treatment options, reflecting a science-based and risk-managed approach to plant health compliance.
“The outcome, firmly based on scientific outputs from Citrus Research International, is the result of collaborative engagement between South African and Chinese authorities,” the authority continued.
The inclusion of improved treatment options is anticipated to increase the quality of fruit reaching Chinese consumers, while also reducing costs and improving export efficiencies for South African producers and exporters.
“In doing so, the amendment is set to significantly boost South Africa’s citrus presence in the Chinese market,” the CGA noted.
China is a well-established destination for South African citrus, particularly Navel oranges, lemons and grapefruit, categories valued by Chinese consumers.
“While exports to China and Hong Kong accounted for approximately 11.5mn cartons (6 per cent) of total exports in 2025, there is significant opportunity to expand this share, supported by strong consumer demand and complementary seasonal supply,” it confirmed.
South Africa’s citrus industry provides counter-seasonal supply to the Chinese market, complementing China’s domestic production by keeping consumers engaged with the category year-round.
“South Africa places a high value on its relationship with China, which continues to create meaningful opportunities across our agricultural sector,” said minister of agriculture John Steenhuisen.
“These agreements are the result of trust, respect and sustained cooperation, and they are helping open doors for our producers at a time when diversification has never been more important.”
At the signing ceremony in Pretoria, Chinese ambassador Wu Peng said South African citrus has ”excellent quality” and complements China’s domestic citrus production due to counter-seasonal supply.
“That is a very positive contribution to Chinese consumers’ fruit baskets,” he said. “With China’s huge market of 1.4bn people, our cooperation has enormous potential and bright prospects.
”This agreement for further access to the Chinese market cannot be more timely, because South Africa’s citrus season this year is just beginning and developing strongly.
”It reflects the high level of China-South Africa bilateral relations and the deep friendship between our peoples.”
CGA chief executive Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele said the CGA remains committed to working closely with the South African government and international partners to strengthen market access, uphold high phytosanitary standards, and support the sustainable growth of the citrus industry.