Botswana’s bid to become a citrus powerhouse is turning sour for South African farmers, with the country’s import bans on fruits and vegetables sparking a diplomatic and economic row.
The Southern African Customs Union (Sacu) partner has imposed temporary restrictions on orange imports until the end of August, as part of a wider plan to boost local agriculture and achieve food self-sufficiency. But the move has infuriated South African producers, who argue it undermines the very essence of the customs union.
“This is a commercial shock to the system,” fumed Wolfe Logan Braude, manager of Agbiz Fruit. “As Sacu members, we should trade freely, without these barriers. It’s like erecting a wall between neighbours.”
South Africa, the world’s second-largest citrus exporter, ships millions of cartons of oranges to Botswana annually. While the immediate impact on exports is relatively small, the ban has sent shockwaves through the industry.
“The price of oranges in Botswana might spike in the short term, but as local production ramps up, things should stabilise,” Braude conceded. “But the risk of market inefficiencies is real. This is not the way to build a sustainable agricultural sector.”
Botswana’s citrus growers are receiving support from the Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa (CGA), which the country joined in 2022. The aim is to develop a robust local industry capable of competing on the global stage.
“We want to see Botswana succeed,” said Braude. “But slapping bans on imports is not the way to do it. It’s like teaching someone to swim by throwing them in the deep end without a life jacket.”
The wider impact on the vegetable trade is even more severe. Botswana is a crucial market for South African producers, and the bans have caused significant disruptions.
Agbiz argues that the restrictions contravene both Sacu and World Trade Organisation agreements. “This is not just about business,” said Braude. “It’s about undermining regional integration. We need a diplomatic solution that respects both countries’ rules and benefits.”
