South Africa’s exports to China increased by 25% year-on-year between May and August 2026, following the introduction of China’s zero-tariff treatment for African countries, highlighting the potential for improved market access to strengthen trade and investment.
According to data released by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), bilateral trade between South Africa and China rose by 24% to US$15 billion during the four-month period. South African exports to China reached US$5.3 billion, exceeding the country’s overall export growth of 17% over the same period.
China’s zero-tariff measure took effect on 1 May 2026, providing duty-free access to the Chinese market for 53 African countries. South Africa was among the first to benefit, exporting 24 metric tonnes of fresh apples to China on the policy’s launch date.
Customs activity increases as trade expands
South Africa’s Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, said SARS issued 25,975 certificates of origin between 1 June and 31 August. The number reflected a 199% year-on-year increase in customs declarations, indicating a substantial rise in trade activity.
Tau said the government would pursue additional opportunities through strategic trade fairs, targeted export missions, hosted buyer programmes and direct business-to-business engagements.
The initiatives are intended to connect South African businesses with Chinese buyers and help exporters take advantage of the improved market access.
Agricultural exports and higher-value goods gain opportunities
Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng welcomed the increase in South African exports, highlighting the potential for more high-quality fruit and vegetables to reach Chinese consumers.
The zero-tariff arrangement could strengthen opportunities for South African agricultural producers by reducing the cost of accessing one of the world’s largest consumer markets. Exporters will still need to meet China’s applicable import, food safety and phytosanitary requirements.
Beyond agriculture, exports of higher-value products, including machinery, electronics, chemicals and automobiles, have also increased, according to the report. This suggests that the trade relationship extends beyond raw materials and agricultural commodities.
Wu said lower trade costs could improve the competitiveness of businesses operating in South Africa and encourage international companies to establish or expand operations in the country.
Cecil Masoka, director of Europe and Gulf States at South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, said the policy could help local companies develop additional commercial relationships with Chinese counterparts.
Reducing trade barriers
SARS interim deputy commissioner Schalk Human said the revenue service was working to reduce customs bureaucracy and facilitate trade.
While zero tariffs remove applicable customs duties on eligible goods, exporters must still comply with relevant documentation and regulatory requirements. Efficient customs procedures and stronger connections between producers and buyers will therefore remain important to converting improved market access into sustained export growth.
For South Africa, the policy presents an opportunity to expand agricultural exports, diversify its export mix and attract investment linked to production and processing. The longer-term benefits will depend on how effectively businesses identify demand, meet market requirements and build reliable supply chains.