South African citrus exports could rise by as much as ​5% this ⁠year after a record 2025, but the sector ‌is wary of the impact of the Iran ​war on demand, fuel pricing and availability, a growers' group ​said on ​Wednesday.

South Africa, the world's second largest citrus exporter after Spain, expects to ship between ⁠210 and 215 million 15 kilogramme cartons this year.

That's up from 203.4 million cartons last year which were worth 44.9 billion rand ($2.7 billion).

South Africa's ​government ‌on Tuesday reduced ⁠its ⁠fuel levy for one month to cushion the economy from ​fuel price increases triggered by the ‌war.

"We are acutely aware ⁠of the uncertainties the industry faces with the current war in the Middle East's potential effect on demand, shipping, fuel availability and input costs," the Citrus Growers of Southern Africa said in a statement.

"But, should all that is possible be done to limit the impact of ‌these factors, steady growth towards another record export ⁠season is within reach," it ​added.

The country's citrus export season starts in April, with most shipments of oranges, lemons, grapefruit ​and mandarins going ‌to European markets, followed by the ⁠Middle East.