Marketing and organic certification of citrus production

Present organic citrus production is still less than 2 % of the total global citrus production. However, it is increasing yearly in parallel with the increasing demand for organic products. Organic certified citrus, however, still plays a minor role in domestic markets in Africa and a few countries are exporting organic citrus juices to Europe. Naturally grown citrus with low or no pesticide input is grown in many African countries mostly for the local market. Nevertheless, the market offers good opportunities for future growth. But the decision to certify the citrus production should be based on marketing potential and customer requirements.

Citrus for export has the following requirements:

The importing countries demand specific varieties and fruits that are harvested at the proper stage of maturity.
Implementation of organic practices during production and renunciation of synthetic pesticides and genetically modified planting materials. Any pesticide contamination from neighbouring conventional orchards through soil erosion or wind drift should also be avoided.
Proper cleaning, sorting, sizing, waxing, packing and use of refrigerated transportation done according to the quality standards and regulations of the importing countries.
The use of fungicides is not allowed to prevent fungal attack when washing citrus fruit.

Some national and international organic standards define additional requirements for production and postharvest handling of citrus. Details are available at the national organic movement or the organic certification body operating in the region or country.

Group work: organic certification and marketing of citrus

Inquire among the farmers about their knowledge and involvement in marketing activities of citrus by asking the following questions:

Do you know who the main buyers of citrus in the area are?
What are their quality requirements?
Are there any organic producers or buyers in the area?