In a recent development impacting cross-border agricultural trade, Botswana has expanded its import restrictions to include oranges from South Africa. This follows the extension of a previous ban on vegetable imports, now set to last until the end of 2025. The orange import ban will be in effect from 17 June to 31 August, aiming to bolster Botswana's agricultural sector and local economy.
The Botswanan government has encouraged businesses to procure oranges domestically, particularly from the Tuli Block area, to ensure the success of this initiative. This move has raised concerns among stakeholders in South Africa, including Paul Makube, a senior agricultural economist at FNB, who highlighted the potential strain on bilateral relations and the challenges it poses for South African producers in terms of planning and aligning with the Africa Free Trade Agreement's objectives for regional integration. Makube emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in technology sharing to support economic growth in both nations.
Source: primediaplus.com