South Africa has officially closed its 2025 citrus export season to Russia, according to the Russia South Africa Business Council, a partner of TV BRICS. The country remains one of Russia’s leading suppliers of fresh fruit, alongside Egypt, with shipments ensuring year-round availability thanks to non-overlapping harvest seasons and diverse climatic zones.
Citrus fruit, which is not produced domestically in Russia, accounts for a significant share of imports. South African oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and mandarins supplied nearly one-third of Russia’s total citrus demand this year. Shipments reached close to 350,000 tons—representing a 25% increase compared with 2024. The export basket has also expanded to include apples, pears, peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, grapes, blueberries, and avocados.
Despite the long transit distances, South African produce continues to feature prominently in Russian retail channels. The Business Council credits this to a well-established supply chain linking the two countries through refrigerated vessels and container services. Fresh fruit trade now accounts for nearly half of South Africa’s total exports to Russia, with more than 100 companies participating, including growers represented by the Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, South African producers plan to deepen cooperation with Russian importers and regulatory agencies. Priorities include strengthening cold chain performance, expanding technical exchanges, and diversifying citrus and subtropical product lines. The Citrus Growers Association is also preparing to increase engagement with the Eurasian Economic Council, with discussions expected to focus on certification procedures, technical standards alignment, and greater transparency in trade.
South Africa’s growing role in Russia’s fruit supply underscores the importance of agricultural trade partnerships in sustaining food security and market stability across regions.
