South African table grape producers are raising concerns over a proposed 31% U.S. tariff, which could severely impact exports, threaten jobs, and make the industry uncompetitive.
Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 10% tariff on all imports to the U.S., along with additional tariffs for several countries, including a 30% tariff on South African goods. However, he later postponed higher tariffs for most countries for 90 days, except for China, which was hit with a 145% tariff.
Gabriel Viljoen, chairperson of the Oranje River Producers Association, warned that the new tariff would make the South African grape industry economically unsustainable.
“It’s not economically viable for us due to market conditions, and we won’t be able to continue operating,” Viljoen told the SABC.
Earlier this year, the South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) reported significant growth in the U.S. market. Over the past five seasons, fresh grape exports from South Africa to the U.S. have grown by 28%.
“The market penetration over the past five seasons has increased our exports to 28% of the market share. If the proposed 31% tariff is implemented, it will no longer be economically viable for us,” Viljoen said.
SATI CEO Mecia Petersen also voiced concerns earlier this month, warning that the tariff would have serious repercussions for the industry.
“This would drastically affect the South African table grape industry, disrupting exports and jeopardizing jobs in farming communities across South Africa,” Petersen stated.