Online Reporter
SOUTH AFRICA has overtaken Spain to become the world’s largest citrus exporter by volume, after shipping a record 2,9 million tonnes of citrus fruit in 2025, according to the country’s agriculture ministry.
The milestone marks a significant shift in the global citrus trade, long dominated by Spain, and highlights South Africa’s growing influence in international agribusiness.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen described the development as a major achievement for the country’s farming sector, citing the industry’s export growth and compliance with international plant health standards.
“To overtake a citrus export giant like Spain, even by a small margin, is no easy feat,” Steenhuisen said on Thursday.
The minister noted that while South Africa now leads global citrus exports by volume, countries including China and Brazil still dominate overall production because much of their output is consumed domestically.
He also pointed to climate-related challenges in Spain as one factor behind the shift, while stressing that the two countries continue to serve complementary roles in global supply chains.
Spain largely supplies citrus during the Northern Hemisphere season, while South Africa supports year-round availability during the Southern Hemisphere summer.
Steenhuisen said the government would continue to pursue new export markets and improve trade infrastructure to sustain growth.
“Our production growth must be met with intensified diplomacy and infrastructure support,” he said.
The achievement is expected to strengthen South Africa’s position in key markets across Europe, Asia and the Middle East as global demand for fresh produce continues to rise. — Business Insider Africa
