South African citrus is on the move for the 2015 summer season. The Western Cape Citrus Producers Forum, or WCCPF, premiered the first if its 2015 season fruit at the United Fresh exhibition June 9-10, which was the first time South Africa’s Summer Citrus exporters participated as exhibitors and sponsors.

“It is important for us to meet with retailers currently featuring our citrus and engage with those who are not yet carrying it,” said Suhanra Conradie, chief executive officer of WCCPF. “While our program has grown over the last 16 years, we believe there are opportunities for further expansion.

“Meeting growers increases retail familiarity with the fine quality of the products, the tightly managed supply and shipping program, and collaborative support for promotional initiatives with U.S.-based importers and service providers,” she added.

WCCPF represents 230 growers from the Western and Northern Cape regions of South Africa who meet the rigorous regulations necessary to export to the United States.

The United Fresh event coincided with the arrival of the first vessels in late May. Imports are currently comprised of about 33 percent easy peelers, 66 percent Navel oranges and the remainder star ruby grapefruit. Two additional conventional vessels are expected by the first week of July.

On May 1, in Citrusdal, South Africa, WCCPF conducted its annual planning sessions for the summer citrus export program to the United States, with much of the discussion linked to the importance of the African Growth & Opportunity Act, commonly referred to as AGOA.

U.S. Consul General to Cape Town Teddy B. Taylor was keynote speaker. He highlighted the summer citrus export program to the United States as one of AGOA’s great success stories.

“The citrus program provides 8,000 permanent and 12,000 temporary jobs,” he said. “It has enabled the establishment of skills transfer and improved education and healthcare and recreational facilities in the Citrusdal valley.”

Taylor identified challenges to AGOA’s renewal, citing U.S. expectations for access to South Africa markets for U.S. products. AGOA renewal is currently before the U.S. Congress, with a vote expected before the end of 2015.

Western and Northern Cape regions of South Africa enjoyed an early citrus harvest due to excellent weather conditions this year. Conradie noted that the favorable weather and optimum fruit ripeness determines the onset of harvesting.

“Our growers believe that in terms of fruit color and eating quality, it is perhaps the best fruit in years to start the season,” she said. “The high eating quality is preferred by the U.S. consumers. This program’s success is due to our commitment of providing the best of South Africa’s citrus to the U.S. market and in a highly disciplined manner. This makes for a successful and sustainable business through consistent quality and reliable supply.”