Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, has welcomed the Citrus Growers Association’s (CGA) inaugural Annual Citrus Day, held in Citrusdal on 11 August 2026, as an important milestone in recognising one of South Africa’s most successful agricultural industries.
Addressing industry leaders, growers, exporters, researchers and stakeholders at the event, Minister Meyer said the occasion marked the fulfilment of a vision he first proposed during his Budget Vote Speech earlier this year to establish a dedicated South African Citrus Day.
“This gathering is about much more than citrus. It is about celebrating the growers, farm workers, researchers, exporters, entrepreneurs and communities whose efforts have made South African citrus a global success story,” said Meyer.
The Minister noted that Citrusdal was a fitting location for the inaugural celebration, given its status as one of South Africa’s iconic citrus-producing regions and a symbol of the resilience, innovation and excellence that have characterised the industry.
South Africa’s citrus sector continues to be a major contributor to economic growth, employment and export earnings. According to Citrus Growers Association statistics highlighted by Minister Meyer, the industry achieved a record export season in 2025, exporting 203.9 million 15-kilogram cartons, equivalent to approximately 3.06 million tonnes of citrus. The sector remains South Africa’s largest agricultural export industry by value and supports an estimated 140,000 jobs at farm level.
“These figures represent more than commercial success. They reflect the dedication of thousands of people who invest through uncertainty, embrace innovation and continue creating opportunities in rural communities across our country,” Meyer said.
Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele, CEO of the CGA said: “We are truly excited to celebrate the wider value of the industry. Minister Ivan Meyer has been a supporter and enabler of the citrus industry for a long time, and his efforts are deeply appreciated. The day represents a chance to show a side of the industry that does not often get all the attention it deserves: its essential role in so many rural economies, its social contributions through direct community support, its world class research and technology.”
The Minister said South Africa could draw inspiration from international examples such as California’s Sunkist Citrus Day, while creating a uniquely South African tradition that celebrates citrus-producing communities across the country.
While celebrating the achievements of the sector, Minister Meyer also highlighted the need to address challenges that could affect future growth, including rising input costs, water constraints, biosecurity threats, climate variability and increasing global competition. Efficient logistics, including reliable ports, rail infrastructure and freight systems, remain critical to maintaining the industry’s international competitiveness.
“Our achievements are substantial: record exports, expanding global markets, growing production and a sector that continues to create jobs and generate export earnings. Our responsibility is to build on that success by improving logistics, strengthening biosecurity, supporting innovation, expanding market access and ensuring that growth creates opportunities for more South Africans,” he said.
Minister Meyer reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between government, industry, researchers, exporters and workers to secure the sector’s long-term success.
“Let us continue building a sector that is globally competitive, environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. If we continue working together, there is every reason to believe that the best years of South African citrus still lie ahead,” he concluded.
Media inquiries:
Daniel Johnson
Media Liaison Officer to Provincial Minister Ivan Meyer
Email: Daniel.Johnson@westerncape.gov.za
