The potential imposition of US tariffs threatens tens of thousands of jobs in South Africa’s citrus farms. The AGOA trade agreement, crucial for tariff-free exports to the US, is up for renewal in September 2025, raising significant concerns among farmers. High unemployment rates and historical land ownership issues complicate the potential fallout, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to preserve this vital sector.
In South Africa, the potential imposition of tariffs by the United States could jeopardize tens of thousands of jobs in the citrus farming sector. The situation unfolds as Donald Trump addresses land expropriation issues affecting Afrikaners, yet the greater anxiety lies in the possible loss of tariff-free access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
The farming town of Citrusdal, located at the base of the Cederberg mountains, is known for its orange and lemon orchards. As the harvest season approaches in July and August, fears grow that escalating tensions with the US government may hinder the ability to export citrus products to key markets like the United States, UK, and Europe.
AGOA, a trade agreement that offers Sub-Saharan countries tariff-free access to US markets, is scheduled for renewal in September 2025. Experts warn that South Africa should consider withdrawing from AGOA proactively to mitigate risks, especially given US tariffs imposed on neighboring Canada and Mexico. Gerrit van der Merwe, chair of the Citrus Growers’ Association, emphasizes the detrimental impact on farmers and communities if preferential trade access is lost.
South Africa ranks as the second-largest citrus exporter globally, trailing behind Spain, with only 9% of its citrus products shipped to the US. The loss of AGOA could threaten approximately 35,000 jobs in South Africa’s citrus industry and an additional 25,000 jobs in the US supply chain, amid the country’s high unemployment rates.
The legacy of land ownership in South Africa remains linked to historical inequalities—a situation exacerbated by apartheid. Recent legislation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa permits government expropriation of land in the public interest, igniting fears among white landowners such as Gerrit van der Merwe. While some farmers express interest in asylum in the US, Gerrit argues that the majority wish to remain in South Africa.
Further north, farmer Wannie Scribante demonstrates the security measures he has installed on his property, citing concerns over potential land seizures despite maintaining a relatively secure environment. He questions the honesty of the government regarding expropriation with compensation and expresses relief at US engagement over South African land issues, which he feels have been ignored locally.
The prospect of US tariffs poses a critical threat to the citrus farming sector in South Africa, endangering thousands of jobs and the livelihoods of many South Africans. As the AGOA renewal approaches, proactive measures may be necessary to safeguard trade relations and preserve employment opportunities within the industry. The broader implications of land ownership debates and government policies further complicate this delicate situation for farmers.
Original Source: news.sky.com
