The highly anticipated CGA Citrus Summit 2025 is set to take place from 12-13 March 2025 in Gqeberha, bringing together citrus growers, industry stakeholders, and experts to address key challenges and opportunities in the sector. This biennial event, which alternates with the CGA Regional Roadshow, serves as a platform for collaboration between growers, government partners, and value chain stakeholders, fostering dialogue on sustainable solutions for the citrus industry.
Summit Overview
The Summit will take place over two days, following a Pre-Summit Tour on 10-11 March 2025. Registration opens on 11 March, followed by a Welcome Function. The main sessions start on 12 March, covering strategic insights, sustainability, market access, and industry inclusiveness.
Distinguished Speakers
The Summit boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including internationally recognized experts and industry leaders:
- Minister John Steenhuisen – Delivering the keynote address on the South African citrus industry’s future.
- Frans Cronjé – A leading strategist who has advised numerous organizations on public policy and scenario-based strategy, providing insights on economic and political landscapes up to 2029.
- Dawie Roodt – An expert on local and global economic conditions, offering valuable perspectives for citrus growers.
- Marcos Neves – A global agribusiness expert and professor at the University of São Paulo, presenting on the citrus processing market and sustainable business strategies.
- Brett Archibald – An inspirational speaker sharing his remarkable survival story and lessons on resilience.
- Tony Lee (JWM) – Addressing the China production and import market and its implications for citrus growers.
Highlights
The structured program includes six key sessions designed to provide comprehensive insights into critical aspects of the citrus industry:
- Session 1: Strategic Snapshot – Exploring the economic and political landscape.
- Session 2: Sustainability – Addressing climate challenges and sustainable practices.
- Session 3: Market Access – Discussions on China’s import market, feedback from global market access experts, and development strategies.
- Session 4: Industry Inclusiveness – A panel discussion on inclusive growth within the citrus sector.
- Gala Dinner – A networking event bringing together industry leaders and stakeholders.
- Session 5: Strategic Orientation – Providing industry forecasts and planning strategies.
- Session 6: Logistics – Exploring supply chain optimization and logistics solutions.
A Platform for Growth and Collaboration
The CGA Citrus Summit is more than just a conference; it is a strategic gathering aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of Southern Africa’s citrus industry. By engaging with global experts, policymakers, and market leaders, citrus growers will gain valuable knowledge to navigate challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
With topics ranging from market access and sustainability to logistics and inclusive industry growth, the 2025 Summit promises to be an invaluable event for all stakeholders in the citrus value chain. Citrus growers, industry leaders, and partners are encouraged to attend and contribute to shaping the future of this vital industry.