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Exports

South Africa's Agricultural Exports Reach US$3.36 Billion in Q1 2025

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

South Africa's agricultural exports reached a significant milestone in the first quarter of 2025, with exports valued at US$3.36 billion, a 10% increase year-on-year, according to Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. This achievement is attributed to the government's efforts in expanding market access and defending trade over the past year. The Minister highlighted several key successes, including securing new access for avocados to China, maize to Japan and India, beef to Iran, and table grapes to the Philippines and Vietnam.

Key Takeaways:

  • South Africa's agricultural exports reached US$3.36 billion in Q1 2025, a 10% increase year-on-year.
  • The government facilitated new access for avocados to China, maize to Japan and India, beef to Iran, and table grapes to the Philippines and Vietnam.
  • The Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, highlighted the establishment of the National Biosecurity Compact and a Biosecurity Council, which bring together scientists, industry experts, and officials to coordinate outbreak responses.
  • The government has deployed animal health technicians to vaccinate against Foot and Mouth Disease in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal and adopted a new proactive, strategic approach.
  • Over 6,000 farmers received direct support through a R1.7 billion allocation, creating 3,000 jobs.
  • The government has supported 67,492 vulnerable households through the Ilima/Letsema programme, generating nearly 9,500 work opportunities.

Statistics:

  • US$3.36 billion: Value of South Africa's agricultural exports in Q1 2025
  • 10%: Increase in agricultural exports year-on-year
  • 6,000: Number of farmers receiving direct support through a R1.7 billion allocation
  • R1.7 billion: Allocation for direct support to farmers
  • 3,000: Number of jobs created through direct support to farmers
  • 67,492: Number of vulnerable households supported through the Ilima/Letsema programme
  • 9,500: Number of work opportunities generated through the Ilima/Letsema programme

Sources:

  • SAnews.gov.za: "South Africa's agricultural exports reach US$3.36 billion in Q1 2025"
  • www.gov.za: "Address by Minister John Steenhuisen on the Post-Budget Vote Media Briefing"

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