South African Citrus Industry at Risk as U.S. Tariffs Threaten 35,000 Jobs

South Africa’s citrus sector is bracing for impact following the recent announcement of new import tariffs by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The tariffs are expected to significantly disrupt exports and could put an estimated 35,000 jobs at risk, according to a statement by the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa.

The U.S. is a major destination for South African citrus produce. Industry stakeholders fear that the higher cost of access to the American market will hurt farmers, reduce competitiveness, and impact livelihoods, especially in rural farming communities.

The Citrus Growers’ Association has urged both governments to seek a resolution that preserves trade ties and protects jobs. They warn that without intervention, the long-term effects could ripple across the agricultural economy.

The move comes amid broader trade tensions between the U.S. and various global markets, with agriculture often caught in the crossfire.