U.S. importers of citrus from South Africa anticipate a strong season this summer as exports return to 2024 levels following an exceptionally strong export season in 2025.
Wonderful Citrus
Exports from the Western Cape and Northern Cape regions were forecast to be down about 22% from 2025 because of lower production and other factors, says Chris Cockle, vice president for imports and exports for Delano, Calif.-based Wonderful Citrus.
Nonetheless, Wonderful Citrus and other importers expect to have ample supplies and seem eager for the season to get underway.
Cockle says Wonderful Citrus is planning a robust South African import program, “with a focus on exceptional quality and an outstanding eating experience.”
“Our trusted grower partners will supply Halos mandarins, Wonderful seedless lemons, Wonderful sweet grapefruit and Paramount-branded oranges, bringing a diverse and premium offering to the U.S. market,” he says.
Early indicators point to excellent fruit quality this year that should create a good foundation for strong consumer demand and repeat purchases, he adds.
An improved tariff situation for South African citrus has further enhanced the attractiveness of the U.S. market and supports a well timed, balanced program, Cockle says.
Oppy
Coquitlam, B.C.-based Oppy will import navel oranges, mandarins and grapefruit as part of its South African summer import citrus program, says James Milne, vice president of categories and chief marketing officer.
The program will run June through October.
“Quality is shaping up well, with strong flavor expected across the program,” Milne says.
Organic citrus is a key expansion area for Oppy.
“This growth is strengthening our long-term partnerships in South Africa and giving retailers more options in a segment that continues to build momentum with shoppers,” he says.
Seald Sweet
All signs point toward a strong South African program for Vero Beach, Fla.-based Seald Sweet LLC, says GT Parris, vice president of sales and sourcing team.
“Our first arrivals of clementines are expected June 1, perfectly timed to bridge the gap as the California season winds down and summer demand ramps up,” he says. “Early field reports are very encouraging, with growers seeing improved sizing and strong overall quality — setting this crop up to perform well at retail.”
The season is expected to run July through mid-October.
Anticipated Arrivals
The first two container vessels from Wonderful Citrus are scheduled to arrive at the end of May with limited volume, Cockle says.
Container arrivals will ramp up beginning in mid-June, providing a smooth transition from the California mandarin season, he says.
“A dedicated stop in Savannah [Ga.] in addition to the Northeast will be a welcome addition to the options on arrivals this season,” he adds.
The program will be supported by six conventional vessels in addition to container shipments, Cockle says. The first conventional vessel is scheduled to arrive in late June, and the final arrival is planned for mid-October.
Container arrivals are expected to continue through late October.
Oppy was expecting steady supplies since the tariffs were lifted, Milne says.
“Oppy’s diversified import citrus program allows us to offer a strong range of products while reducing concentration risk,” he says. “Our focus remains bringing the top citrus items from around the world to our customers, and many of those come from South Africa.”
South Africa plays a critical role and is an integral part of the Eastern Seaboard citrus scene in particular because of its quality and scale, he adds.
Tariffs remain a factor for the mandarin category, so Seald Sweet is entering the season better positioned to manage that impact, Parris says.
“Volume is expected to be in line with last year, giving us consistency while seamlessly complementing our broader mandarin import program,” he says.
In the orange category, navels and cara caras are tracking well, Parris says.
Recent rains slightly delayed the harvest and shifted arrivals from mid-June to the last week of June.
South Africa is reporting lighter navel volume overall, but sizing is increasing, peaking on 64s and 56s, he says.
“As we’ve seen in California, this could drive premiums on smaller sizes — something to keep in mind as you plan your programs,” he says.
Seald Sweet’s cara cara program continues to be a standout performer, Parris adds.
“We’re expecting another year of reliable volume, excellent eating quality and strong consumer appeal, with arrivals beginning in the first week of July,” he says.
Grapefruit also remains a steady category for the company.
“After a successful season last year, we’re anticipating similar volumes, with program business as the priority while still maintaining some availability for spot opportunities,” Parris says.
“Now is the time to start building your programs to take full advantage of the upcoming window,” he says.
