Ailimpo director José Antonio García’s efforts were highlighted at recent CGA Citrus Summit
The Citrus Growers Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has recognised the role of Ailimpo and its general director, José Antonio García Fernández, for ten years of collaboration with the citrus industry in South Africa.
The act of recognition, with the presentation of a diploma, took place in Port Elizabeth during the CGA’s Citrus Summit.
When collecting the award, Fernández emphasised the honour of receiving recognition from the CGA.
He outlined how it was an organisation that, like Ailimpo, ”embodied the values of transparency, professionalism, passion and defence of producers”.
On behalf of the CGA, Deon Joubert highlighted ”the dedication and innovative approach of José Antonio García, as well as his constant leadership, which have undoubtedly consolidated Ailimpo as the main citrus institution in Spain”.
He also recalled ”the leading role of José Antonio García as a driving force and leader in the creation, establishment and formalisation of the World Citrus Organisation, which has become the main think tank and organisation for citrus fruits worldwide”.
Joubert also praised his work to restore normality to the entry of citrus through Spanish ports such as Cartagena during the counter-season.
Fernández emphasised ”the importance of organisations such as the CGA and Ailimpo working together in cooperation to defend the economic sustainability of all producers”, who he recalled ”are the key figure in the supply chain, both in South Africa and in Spain”.
”Trust and joint work between producers from all over the world are key to promoting citrus consumption and being able to face collective challenges such as climate change or plant health,” he pointed out.
“Precisely the search for points in common was the spirit that led to the creation of the World Citrus Organisation in 2019 together with Justin Chadwick, CEO of the CGA.”
