Zimpapers Logo

Tariro Stacey Gatsi

THE citrus industry is experiencing an upswing with hectarage for oranges rising from 4 174 hectares in the 2022/23 season to 4 631 in 2023/24 amid firming prospects of further expansion, thanks to improved access to export markets.

This came out in the final crop, livestock and fisheries assessment report (Pre-harvesting) CLAFA 1, which highlighted that there was an 11 percent increase in oranges hectarage.

“Surplus production is anticipated to bolster export opportunities, leading to increased foreign exchange earnings, as well as strengthen trading relations with China,” read part of the report.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe and China last year signed a citrus trade protocol that was initiated in 2015 for the export of oranges for smallholder growers under the Shashi irrigation scheme.

The fresh citrus products that were to be exported to China from Zimbabwe include sweet orange (Citrus sinensis), mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), lemon (Citrus limon and aurantifolia) and sour orange (Citrus aurantium).

The General Administration of Customs of China also released a list of registered Zimbabwean orchards and pack houses for fresh citrus exports to China.

The country’s citrus products have predominantly been exported to European Union (EU) markets with some destined for the African market. 

Knowledge Transfer Africa (KTA) chief executive officer Dr Charles Dhewa recently commented saying: “Orange supplies at the markets have improved significantly because of the early ripening of fruits with prices ranging from US$8 to US$10 for a 10kg pocket.

He added that the prevailing climatic conditions have led to orange harvesting starting much earlier than usual.

The early ripening of the fruits comes with good quality and optimal sweetness, making them appealing to consumers seeking fresh and flavourful citrus options.

“Farmers in Chegutu and Mazowe are bringing in the fruit, which is making a significant impact in meeting the demand for oranges. Their dedication and expertise in cultivating citrus crops has resulted in plentiful harvests contributing to the availability of locally grown oranges in the market.

“In addition to the locally sourced oranges, imports from South Africa are supplementing the supplies. Imports are helping to diversify the range of available varieties and flavours for consumers,” he said.

The early marketing season for oranges presents an opportunity for farmers to make money early while consumers get a variety of tastes. Farmers can take advantage of the high demand and potentially favourable prices for their produce, while consumers can enjoy a wider selection of fresh, juicy oranges.