Delivering supply chain performance for export growth during the pandemic: Experiences of South Africa’s citrus industry

Recent years have witnessed a remarkable growth in the export performance of South Africa’s industry. Not only have the country’s producers increased production of a range of citrus crops, but the industry has defied the odds in growing its market presence in markets with very stringent standards such as Japan. This has all occurred in a context where South African agriculture has been under pressure from policy uncertainties, a very weak domestic economy and weakening logistics performance.  On top of all of this, the challenges have been confronted in the middle of a global pandemic that has substantially interrupted systems of global trade.

The production and export of a perishable horticulture product presents particular challenges around a demanding and complex logistics chain. This experience of the citrus industry actors in turning the proverbial “lemons”, (and limes, oranges and clementine too), into a major South African success story holds much relevance to other industries. Justin Chadwick and his team at the Citrus Growers Association have been at the heart of these processes and have worked tirelessly to support the success of the citrus sector in recent years.  As part of TWIMS’ ongoing efforts to share insights with those in the broader manufacturing and production community, Justin has agreed to make a presentation at the TWIMS Breakfast Seminar series on, “Delivering supply chain performance for export growth during the pandemic: Experiences of South Africa’s citrus industry.”