South Africa’s agricultural exports hit a record US$4B Q1, driven by horticulture
Logistics improvements at the Port of Durban and other ports in the Eastern Cape supported export activity across several agricultural sectors, including citrus.
SOUTH AFRICA – Agricultural exports reached a first-quarter record of R67 billion (approx. US$4.04 billion) in 2026, with a trade surplus of R33 billion (US$1.99 billion) accounting for 40% of the country’s total trade surplus during the quarter.
Several factors are driving South Africa’s record agricultural trade surplus, with the horticulture industry leading the way. Edible fruits and nuts recorded a 13.7% increase in export value, making horticulture the main contributor to export growth during the quarter.
BFAP noted that performance recovered from the narrower trade margins recorded in 2023 and 2024. South Africa regained its status as a net exporter as the trade surplus widened to its highest level since the Covid-19 period.
Logistics improvements at the Port of Durban and other ports in the Eastern Cape supported export activity across several agricultural sectors, including citrus. Senior agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo said South Africa’s agricultural exports reached a record US$15.1 billion in 2025, up 10% on 2024.
However, improvements were not uniform across all ports. Weather-related disruptions at the Port of Cape Town in November and December 2025 delayed some agricultural shipments into January 2026, and Cape Town continued to experience delays during a peak export period for the table grape industry.
On the other hand, South Africa’s agricultural export strategy is shifting across global markets, with the Southern African Development Community remaining the largest export market at R26 billion (approx. US$1.57 billion).
Exports to the European Union reached R19 billion (approx. US$1.14 billion), reflecting continued strong trade relationships with both regional and European partners.
In addition, biosecurity challenges remain a key watch item for sustained growth. South Africa’s citrus and table grape industries have faced EU phytosanitary disputes in recent years, and maintaining market access requires continuous investment in pest management and certification systems. BFAP explicitly noted that continued growth depends on addressing these biosecurity challenges.
The record R67 billion in exports was achieved despite delays in Cape Town, suggesting that South Africa’s agricultural sector has sufficient geographic diversification to absorb some logistics shocks.
The first-quarter record is a milestone, but it is also a baseline. South Africa’s agricultural exporters must now defend and build on this position while managing the remaining risks. South Africa has set the pace for 2026. Others will need to run faster to keep up.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
