Citrus exports are back on track in Citrusdal, a major citrus-growing area in South Africa’s Western Cape Province, after recent floods caused significant disruptions. Growers, exporters, and pack houses have reported that while exports have resumed, numerous challenges still remain.
Impact of the Floods
The floods, which struck at the peak of the citrus export season, led to nearly two weeks of delays in harvesting and packing during July. Despite these setbacks, the local community’s cooperation and resilience have prevailed, enabling citrus to move to the Port of Cape Town at an accelerated pace. This minimized the disruption to citrus exports, according to the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA).
Road Infrastructure Challenges
The main road connecting Citrusdal to other areas remains unrepaired. Provincial authorities have assessed the damage, and the flooding has been officially classified as a disaster. This classification is expected to expedite the release of funds and necessary assistance to rebuild the road infrastructure. The local citrus industry had already put forth designs and plans after last year’s flooding disaster, and it is hopeful for a permanent solution moving forward.
Alternative Routes for Export
Currently, the only alternative route out of the isolated valley is a low-water bridge to the north of Citrusdal on the farm of Mouton Citrus. This bridge also required over a week to clear from flooding. Local citrus growers now rely on this bridge and a network of secure roads to transport their produce. “Around 20 million 15kg cartons of citrus must move from the valley to the port every season. Right now is the peak of orange harvesting, with international markets waiting for our Navels and Valencias, and we cannot keep them waiting,” explained Boet Mouton, Director at Mouton Citrus. He emphasized that although the disaster has set back the community, the disruption to exports would be temporary.
Community Resilience and Recovery Efforts
Gerrit van der Merwe, a citrus farmer and Chairperson of the CGA, expressed relief at the resumption of activities. “In a time of crisis, we come together. Unfortunately, this is our second flooding crisis in a year, but in a certain sense, it has also prepared us to handle some of the problems we face.”
Clearing the Backlog
Efforts by growers and exporters to clear the backlog are ongoing. Van der Merwe has been vocal about the critical role of citrus farms, which sustain over 90% of Citrusdal’s economy. “It was terrible to have the entire valley come to a standstill. There were days when nobody could work. Now everything is moving. It is amazing how people jump in and really get going.”
Ongoing Challenges
Despite the progress, many challenges remain. A large citrus packer and exporter in Citrusdal noted, “Yes, we are packing again. But many challenges remain. The road is not fixed yet and the alternative route works. However, we have to make so many plans to get the citrus fruit out.”
Market Reach and Future Focus
Citrusdal, known for its high-quality citrus, is located 170km from the Port of Cape Town. The valley’s exports are primarily destined for markets in the US and Europe. With the heavy storms now subsided and the Port of Cape Town operational again, the focus is on catching up with production, packing, and shipping, ensuring the citrus reaches international markets on time.