The United States’ recent decision to impose heavy tariffs on South African imports has triggered a pressing debate on how to shield key export sectors—especially agriculture—from the fallout. Boosting Global Presence While South Africa continues to explore new agricultural export markets, there’s a growing consensus that the country must ramp up its international marketing efforts. ...

Image:Winnie Pooe 26 August 2025: Land Reform: As discussions about the efficacy and direction of the land reform programme continue, there is scant attention being paid to the role that women are playing in the sector, despite women owning and operating approximately 20% of farming units – according to the Department of Agriculture – and ...

In response to a steep 30% tariff hike imposed by the United States, South Africa has submitted a comprehensive trade proposal aimed at preserving its agricultural export market and protecting thousands of jobs. Ministers Parks Tau and John Steenhuisen described the revised offer as “broad, generous, open, and ambitious,” signaling a strategic pivot in economic ...

With the original deadline for new US tariffs now expired, South Africa’s government appears to be pivoting inward—prioritizing domestic support over efforts to halt the looming trade penalties. This shift leaves the citrus industry, along with the upcoming stonefruit and grape seasons, exposed to serious market instability. A Brief Reprieve, But Little Optimism Although the ...

South Africa’s agriculture minister, John Steenhuisen, has warned that the country’s farming sector is at a pivotal moment. In his recent budget address to Parliament, he emphasized that without swift action to improve market access and strengthen biosecurity, industries like citrus risk losing their capacity to generate employment and contribute to economic growth. His remarks ...