The Citrus Growers’ Association of South Africa has lowered Valencia orange export forecasts by more than 2.3 million cartons for the season.

CEO Justin Chadwick said growers faced difficult markets this year and have had to make some 'critical' packing and export decisions.

"Word from the growers is that most have taken the decision not to pack class 2 fruit, with big volumes directed towards processing," he says.

"As a result there is a significant decrease in the predicted Valencia export volumes; the Valencia Focus Group (VFG) has yet to finalise the latest prediction – it is expected that the previous prediction of 41.3 million cartons (27 July) to be under big pressure."

He says the industry will likely export between 37 million and 39 million 15kg cartons.

"In two weeks time the VFG will met again and the situation will be clearer."

Photo: Citrus Trees Online

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