US tariffs could threaten 35,000 jobs in South Africa’s citrus farms, crucial for the industry and linked to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The landscape of land ownership and worries about new expropriation laws deepen farmers’ concerns. While Trump offers asylum to Afrikaners, most wish to remain, highlighting the dire need for clear communication regarding land policies and economic stability.
The threat of US tariffs poses significant risks to tens of thousands of jobs in South Africa’s citrus farming sector. As tensions rise between the South African government and the Trump administration over land seizure concerns, experts warn about the potential impact on citrus exports, especially since South Africa is a major player in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). AGOA, which allows for preferential trade access to the US, is up for renewal in September 2025 and could be at risk amid tariff discussions.
Citrusdal, a town known for its citrus production, faces challenges since 9% of its citrus exports head to the US. The chair of the Citrus Growers’ Association, Gerrit van der Merwe, emphasizes the crucial link between AGOA and jobs, stating that approximately 35,000 South African jobs depend on it, with an additional 25,000 jobs in the US linked to these exports. With South Africa’s high unemployment rate, which sits between 35% and 45%, losing access to US markets could exacerbate economic distress.
The historical context of land ownership in South Africa complicates the issue further. The legacy of apartheid has led to a disproportionate land ownership, where white individuals, who represent only 7% of the population, own more than half the land. A new bill allowing for government land seizure has incited fears among farmers. Trump has criticized this government action and offered asylum to Afrikaners, but industry leaders like Gerrit note that most growers wish to remain in South Africa rather than seek refuge in the US.
Farmers like Wannie Scribante express alarm over potential land expropriations, stressing the need for honest communication from the government. Despite personal safety on their farms, fears persist about external threats and the implications of the new land policies. Trump’s comments have drawn attention to these issues, but they also reflect broader geopolitical concerns regarding South Africa’s foreign relations.
The looming threat of tariffs by the US government poses a critical challenge for South Africa’s citrus industry, potentially endangering thousands of jobs. The implications of land expropriation laws and the historical context surrounding land ownership add to the complexities faced by farmers. As they navigate these economic uncertainties, many wish to see their concerns addressed locally rather than resort to seeking asylum abroad. The interaction of international trade policies and local governance remains pivotal for the agricultural sector’s future.
Original Source: news.sky.com
