Boitshoko Ntshabele, Chief Executive Officer of the CGA, highlighted that the new tariffs would negatively impact South African citrus farms and the rural communities reliant on them. With the first citrus exports for the United States market set to be packed this week, the industry is facing uncertain times.

"One must consider the impact these tariffs will have on rural communities like Citrusdal. Exports to the United States make the citrus industry in towns like these profitable. The truth is, many jobs are now at risk," Ntshabele explained.

The tariff hikes have raised alarm across the industry, as they could disrupt a vital export market and endanger numerous jobs, especially in rural areas where citrus farming is a key livelihood.

--ChannelAfrica--