The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) is proud to announce that the Republic of South Africa has recently exported litchis to the United States (US) by air shipment. The department views this achievement as one of the major contributions on the country’s initiative of expanding export markets, positioning South Africa as one of the significant exporters in the world. This achievement will enhance socio-economic growth as stipulated in, among others, the National Development Plan (Vision 2030) and the Strategic Plan of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
It took collective efforts of the relevant government departments and the litchi industry to make this happen, negotiating for market access with the US and ensuring that the Republic of South Africa is able to meet the US import requirements and regulations. The fruit was successfully packed at Riverside in the Mpumalanga Province, South Africa and landed in Atlanta, irradiated at Gateway in the US and then transhipped to the relevant agents in US. The feedback received was most encouraging and sales are reported to be going well, with the first commercial orders now being placed.
In 2014, the litchi industry recorded a contribution of approximately 2 390 jobs (both direct and indirect) and about R120 million to the gross value income. The litchi industry undoubtedly has the potential to grow, supported by the continuous production of healthy and safe fruit that will continue to position South Africa as a key player in the export market. Compliance with phytosanitary market access requirements and other related measures is key towards sustaining this crucial export market.
“The litchi industry is hoping to have a couple more commercial consignments being airfreighted out to the USA this season and we welcome the continued support from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and our government in particular. This was really a great collective effort and a special success story for our industry,’’ said Don Westcott, the Chairperson of the South African Litchi Growers’ Association (SALGA) Market Access Committee.
The department appreciates everyone’s contribution; from farm workers, growers, leadership of relevant associations, transportation, agents and plant inspectors to packhouses as well as assignee (Perishable Products Export Control Board) and other relevant departments for making this happen.
Enquires:
Ms Makenosi Maroo
Tel: 012 319 6787
Cell: 072 475 2956
E-mail: MakenosiM@daff.gov.za
