At a Glance
- South Africa’s farm exports jump 10% to $3.36 billion, boosted by strong global commodity demand.
- US-bound exports up 14% amid tariff risk; key goods include citrus, wine, and grapes.
- Agricultural trade surplus hits $1.42 billion as regional and EU demand drive record shipments.
South Africa’s agricultural exports surged 10 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, reaching a robust $3.36 billion (R60.2 billion), driven by stronger port performance and rising shipments to key markets, according to the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz).
This marks a significant milestone for South Africa’s farming sector, which continues to expand amid favorable global commodity prices.
The export boom was largely propelled by increased volumes of key products such as grapes, maize, apples, and wine.
Higher international demand and improved prices for these commodities helped lift the sector’s performance during the quarter.
US trade growth amid tariff uncertainty
Exports to the United States climbed 14 percent to $202 million in Q1, underscoring South Africa’s strategic push into the lucrative US market.
However, this growth comes ahead of looming trade tensions, with a 30 percent tariff on South African agricultural goods expected to take effect once the current 90-day grace period expires in July, under the Trump administration’s tariff policies.
“South Africa’s future agricultural export success now hinges on securing favorable trade terms with the US,” said Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa.
Negotiations with the US government will be critical to maintaining market access and protecting exporters from potential cost shocks.
Agriculture’s vital role in South Africa’s economy
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen praised the strong export results, attributing the growth to the resilience and dedication of South African farmers and the entire agri-value chain. “Agriculture remains a cornerstone of our economic ambitions and a vital contributor to the country’s trade balance,” he noted.
While agriculture accounts for just 2 percent of South Africa’s GDP, the sector supports significant employment, especially for unskilled labor.
Exports have climbed steadily, with 2024 marking the sixth consecutive year of growth and a record $13.7 billion in farm exports.
Key products include citrus fruits, avocados, and nuts, with expanding footprints in Africa, the European Union, Asia, and the Middle East.
In Q1 2025, regional markets accounted for 45 percent of exports, the European Union 23 percent, Asia and the Middle East 16 percent, while the US received 4 percent of shipments, mainly citrus, wine, fruit juice, and grapes.
Meanwhile, farm imports rose 19 percent to $1.94 billion, leaving South Africa with a $1.42 billion agricultural trade surplus.
