South Africa’s agricultural exports to the US surged 26% to $161 million in Q2 2025, driven by a strong harvest and high global prices, ahead of a new 30% US tariff imposed on August 7, according to Bloomberg. Key exports included citrus, wine, juices, and nuts. While total agricultural exports rose 10% to $3.71 billion, the US boost may be short-lived. To offset the impact of tariffs, experts urge South Africa to expand market access to BRICS countries and invest in infrastructure improvements. They write:
South Africa’s agricultural exports to the US surged ahead of a planned 30% tariff, partly due to a bountiful harvest and higher global commodity prices.
Exports to the US climbed 26% to $161 million in the three months through June, compared with a year earlier, Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa said in a quarterly review on Monday.
The bulk of exports to the US comprised citrus, wine, fruit juices, and nuts. […]
South Africa should also maintain its focus on reducing logistical constraints by investing in port and rail infrastructure and improving roads in farming towns, Sihlobo said.
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