JOHANNESBURG - Nearly a decade of negotiations is finally bearing fruit for the citrus industry. It has secured improved access to the Indian market.
India has approved treatment options for exports, giving producers flexibility and helping improve fruit quality.
The Agriculture Department and Citrus Growers' Association say the move is a major boost for the industry.
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India is home to about 1.5 billion people, but accounts for a small share of citrus exports, leaving room for growth.
The industry says South Africa's counter-seasonal production is well placed to meet growing citrus demand.
The association is welcoming the move but says tariffs of 25 to 30% still curtail growth in the Indian market.