South Africa puts early end to Valencia orange exports to Europe 

The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) and the country’s Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum (FPEF) announced the end of Valencia orange exports to Europe for the 2026 season.

In a statement, the industry bodies said that the final day for inspections at packing facilities for fruit from the Western and Northern Cape provinces will be Sunday, September 27.

Image by Shutterstock

"The closure date gives growers and exporters currently still supplying the EU market sufficient notice to finalize their last orders and program obligations," the CGA stated in a press release.

Compliance with Valencia orange supply

For the industry, this decision reflects South Africa’s commitment to being a responsible orange provider and a reliable supplier of high-quality fresh citrus to its trade partners worldwide.

Image by Shutterstock

Additionally, the organizations thanked growers, exporters, and other stakeholders for their ongoing commitment to the sector. 

The closure of Valencia orange exports comes amid a complicated South African 2026 citrus season. During the last campaign, the sector has faced multiple challenges due to geopolitical, climatic, commercial, and logistical factors.

*All images are referential via Shutterstock.

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