South Africa: Difficult citrus season but up to expectations
Koos De Wet, Farm Manager at Rosle Farm said it has been a difficult season for citrus with rain and wind storms, but basically the season is going all right. "We are reaching pre-season estimates and will pack around one million cartons of Valencias this season."
The total volume this season will be 10-15% lower than the average due to weather conditions.
25% of Rosle's citrus goes to the domestic market, mainly to wholesale, while the other 75% is exported. The biggest export market is the Far East, citrus is also sent to the Middle East, Europe and Russia.
Koos said there may be opportunities to increase volumes to the Russian market but not this year as they prefer bigger sizes and there are not many big oranges this season.
As for the Citrus Black Spot issue in Europe, Koos explained that they send such little volumes there it is not a problem.
The main market China, has been stable this year according to Koos. "The lemon prices were good, Navel and Valencia prices have been a bit short but the favourable exchange rate has made up for that."
For more information:
Koos De Wet
Rosle Farm
Email: koos@rosle.co.za