South Africa’s agricultural sector recorded its strongest first-quarter export performance on record in 2026, with exports reaching R67 billion (US$3.7 billion), according to the latest quarterly trade update from the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP).
The sector generated a trade surplus of R33 billion (US$1.8 billion) during the quarter, accounting for approximately 40% of South Africa’s overall trade surplus and reinforcing agriculture’s growing importance to the national economy.
The performance represents a notable recovery from the narrower trade margins recorded in 2023 and 2024, driven largely by strong demand for horticultural products in key international markets.
Fruit exports lead growth
Horticultural products remained the main engine of export growth, with edible fruits and nuts recording a 13.7% increase in export value compared with the same period last year.
South Africa’s fruit industry continues to benefit from strong global demand for products such as citrus, grapes, apples, pears, avocados and nuts, which have become increasingly important sources of foreign exchange earnings.
The horticulture sector has emerged as one of the country’s most competitive agricultural industries, supported by investment in production, packaging, quality standards and export market development.
Regional and European markets remain critical
The report showed that the Southern African Development Community (SADC) remained South Africa’s largest agricultural export destination during the first quarter, accounting for exports worth R26 billion (US$1.4 billion).
The European Union was the second-largest market, with agricultural imports from South Africa valued at R19 billion (US$1.1 billion).
Meanwhile, trade with the United States weakened during the quarter, with agricultural imports declining by more than 60%.
The figures highlight the growing importance of regional African markets alongside established European destinations in supporting South Africa’s agricultural export expansion.
Logistics improvements support trade
Export growth was also aided by improvements in logistics infrastructure, particularly at the ports of Durban and the Eastern Cape.
According to agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo, improved port performance helped facilitate exports across several industries, including the citrus sector.
South Africa’s agricultural exports reached a record US$15.1 billion in 2025, representing a 10% increase over the previous year, providing a strong foundation for continued growth in 2026.
However, logistics challenges remain. BFAP noted that adverse weather conditions at the Port of Cape Town during November and December 2025 likely delayed some agricultural shipments into January 2026.
Sihlobo also highlighted ongoing congestion and delays at Cape Town during the peak table grape export season, underscoring the need for continued investment in logistics efficiency.
Outlook remains positive
BFAP expects future growth to depend on maintaining momentum in the horticultural sector, strengthening trade relationships across Africa and Europe, and addressing biosecurity risks that could affect production and market access.
The widening trade surplus has also restored South Africa’s status as a net agricultural exporter, with the first-quarter surplus reaching its highest level since the Covid-19 period.
As demand for high-value horticultural products continues to grow, the sector is expected to remain a major contributor to export earnings, rural employment, and economic growth in South Africa.