https://youtu.be/WCvPTLHo_c0?t=16

30 November 2025 — South Africa’s agricultural sector continues to demonstrate resilience and growth, with export earnings reaching US$11.7 billion in the first three quarters of 2025. This represents a 10 percent increase compared to the same period last year, underscoring the sector’s strong performance despite ongoing challenges.

According to Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist of Agbiz, several factors have driven this expansion. Exceptional harvests across fruit, vegetables, grains, and oilseeds have combined with robust global demand to lift export volumes. Improvements in port efficiency, achieved through collaboration between Transnet, organised agriculture, and private sector partners, have further supported the sector’s ability to deliver products to international markets.

The third quarter was particularly notable, with exports valued at US$4.7 billion, a 13 percent increase year-on-year. South Africa’s diverse export basket — spanning fresh produce, grains, and processed agricultural goods — continues to secure the country’s position among the world’s top 40 agricultural exporters.

Sihlobo highlighted the broad geographic spread of South Africa’s exports, which reach markets across Africa, Asia, the European Union, the Americas, and the Middle East. Regional dynamics are shaping trade flows, and opportunities are expanding as production remains strong under La Niña conditions. At the same time, import trends and persistent challenges such as foot-and-mouth disease remain on the policy agenda.

Looking ahead, 2025 is on track to become the first year South Africa surpasses US$14 billion in agricultural exports. Achieving this milestone will depend on sustaining production, maintaining market access, and continuing to improve logistics and infrastructure.