South African Agricultural Exports Surge 10% in Q1, Buoyed by U.S. Trade and Port Improvements

South Africa’s agricultural exports rose by 10% in the first quarter of 2025, reaching $3.36 billion (R60.2 billion), according to the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz). The growth was largely attributed to improved port operations and a significant uptick in exports to the United States, which saw a 14% increase year-on-year, totaling $202 million. 

This export boost comes amid trade uncertainty, as South Africa faces the looming threat of a 30% tariff on certain goods by the U.S., expected to take effect following a 90-day grace period starting in July. The potential tariffs are remnants of trade tensions from the Trump administration, placing renewed urgency on trade negotiations. 

"From now on, a great deal hinges on whether South Africa succeeds in securing favourable terms with the US," noted Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at Agbiz, in a statement to clients. 

The strong first-quarter performance follows a record-breaking 2024 for the country's agriculture sector, which achieved $13.7 billion in exports — the sixth consecutive year of growth. Key contributors included increased production and demand for citrus, avocados, and nuts, along with expansion into new export markets. 

Despite agriculture accounting for only 2% of South Africa’s GDP, the sector is a critical source of employment for unskilled laborers. First-quarter GDP figures are expected soon from Statistics South Africa, which will provide further insight into the sector’s economic impact. 

Trade data for Q1 reveals that 45% of South Africa’s agricultural exports went to other African nations, 23% to the European Union, and 16% to Asia and the Middle East. The U.S. accounted for 4% of exports, consisting mainly of citrus, wine, fruit juice, and grapes. 

On the import side, agricultural goods rose 19% to $1.94 billion during the same period, resulting in a healthy trade surplus of $1.42 billion. 

The outlook for the rest of the year remains cautiously optimistic, hinging on successful international trade negotiations and continued export momentum.

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