South Africa's agricultural exports to the United States increased by 26% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching US$161 million.
Some exporters appear to have taken advantage of the 90-day pause on higher tariffs and shipped more volumes than usual during that period. The composition of the exports remained largely unchanged, consisting mainly of citrus, wine, fruit juices, and nuts.
The increase was also supported by South Africa's large fruit harvest. The quarterly growth in exports to the U.S. far exceeded the average growth rate of about 9%.
The U.S. remains an important destination for certain products, although from a national perspective, the share is relatively small. South Africa's agricultural exports to the U.S. represented 4% of the country's total in the second quarter of 2025. Overall agricultural exports to the global market were valued at US$3.71 billion in Q2, up 10% from the same quarter in 2024.
The 4% share is concentrated in a few industries, mainly citrus, grapes, wine, and fruit juices. Since the start of AGOA, the share of exports to the U.S. has generally remained at this level. Future performance will depend on whether South Africa secures favourable trade terms with the U.S. through ongoing discussions between the two countries.
The diversification of exports is not viewed as replacing the U.S. market but adding to it. The sector continues to expand and requires more export destinations. Maintaining access to existing markets in the EU, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas remains a priority, while expanding market access to BRICS countries such as China, India, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt is also being pursued.
In the case of BRICS, emphasis is placed on lowering import tariffs and addressing phytosanitary barriers that limit trade. The discussion within the grouping is expected to move beyond statements of intent towards more concrete trade arrangements.
Source: Agricultural Economics Today