South Africa's citrus production has seen varied fluctuations from 2013 to 2023, standing at 2.9917 million metric tons in 2023. The past decade showcased cycles of growth and contractions with a notable dip in 2016 (-18.37%) and significant recovery phases, such as in 2018 (19.26%) and 2021 (7.12%). Over the last two years, production increased modestly by 1.7% in 2022 and 1.63% in 2023. The five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) averaged at 0.63% from 2018 to 2023.
Looking ahead from 2024 to 2028, citrus production in South Africa is forecasted to experience steady growth, projecting an average annual increase of 1.27% (5-year CAGR) and a total growth of approximately 6.52% by 2028.
Future trends to watch include the impact of climate change on citrus yields, advancements in agricultural technology, and shifts in international trade policies that could affect export markets. Monitoring these factors will be crucial for accurately predicting future production trends and strategic planning.