South Africa recorded a 26% year-on-year increase in agricultural exports to the United States during the second quarter of 2025, reaching a total value of US$161 million. This sharp rise was driven in part by a temporary 90-day suspension of higher tariffs, which allowed exporters to boost shipment volumes during the window.
The export composition remained consistent, dominated by citrus, wine, fruit juices, and nuts. A strong domestic fruit harvest also contributed to the surge, with growth far outpacing the average quarterly rate of 9%.
Despite the uptick, the U.S. accounted for just 4% of South Africa’s total agricultural exports in Q2, which stood at US$3.71 billion—up 10% from the same period in 2024. The U.S. market remains vital for select industries, particularly citrus, grapes, and wine, though its overall share has remained relatively stable since the inception of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
Future performance will hinge on the outcome of ongoing trade negotiations between South Africa and the U.S., with hopes of securing more favorable terms. However, the sector’s strategy is not to replace the U.S. market, but to expand its reach.
Maintaining access to established markets in the EU, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas remains a priority. At the same time, South Africa is actively pursuing deeper trade ties with BRICS nations—China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt—by advocating for reduced import tariffs and the removal of phytosanitary barriers.
Trade discussions within BRICS are expected to evolve from broad declarations to actionable agreements, potentially unlocking new growth avenues for South Africa’s agricultural exports.
