• South Africa exported $11.7 billion in agricultural products in the first nine months of 2025, up 10% from the same period in 2024.

• Agbiz attributes the surge to higher export volumes, stronger international prices and improved port efficiency.

• The sector has already reached 85% of the 2024 full-year record of $13.7 billion, putting a new annual high within reach.

South Africa remains a net exporter of agricultural and food products. As 2025 nears its end, the continent’s most industrialized economy is on track to surpass its agricultural-export record set in 2024.

Agbiz, the South African agricultural business chamber, reports that cumulative agricultural exports reached $11.7 billion between January and September 2025. The organization notes that this figure marks a 10% increase compared with the same period last year.

Wandile Sihlobo, Agbiz’s chief economist, commented on 29 November that three factors drove the expansion: rising export volumes, improved global commodity prices and efficiency gains at South African ports.

“Exports remained solid each quarter. […]. Even if there is still room to improve port efficiency, notable gains have been observed compared with previous months. This trend was also visible over the past two quarters and supports export activity, illustrating the benefits of ongoing reforms in South African industries,” Sihlobo said.

Key export products include citrus, nuts, apples, pears, maize, wine, sugar, fruit juices and avocados.

Africa absorbed 34% of South Africa’s agricultural exports in the third quarter, making it the largest regional destination. Asia and the Middle East followed with 25%, the European Union with 23%, and the Americas with 6%.

Given current performance, the agricultural sector has already achieved nearly 85% of the $13.7 billion record set in 2024. If momentum continues into the fourth quarter, South Africa could set a new annual record in 2025. However, the final outcome will depend on global market trends and logistical conditions in the coming weeks.

Recent policy developments may influence export flows. The United States announced on 14 November a tariff exemption for selected agricultural products, which could ease access for South African goods.

Similarly, Rwanda lifted its mid-November ban on South African agricultural imports, potentially expanding regional market opportunities.

This article was initially published in French by Stéphanas Assocle

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum