Key Points
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South Africa strengthens EU agricultural trade despite citrus issues.
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Mashatile’s France visit breathes life into diplomatic relations.
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Export growth could improve jobs and rural livelihoods.
South Africa’s agricultural sector is seeing new energy in its trade relations with the European Union, thanks in part to a recent diplomatic visit to France by Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
While the trip didn’t grab headlines, it sparked quiet optimism among farmers and trade advocates who believe this could strengthen export opportunities for the long term.
Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz), welcomed the visit, saying it aligns with South Africa’s broader goal of attracting investment and expanding trade. “We’re seeing encouraging engagement with one of our most important trading partners,” Sihlobo said.
In 2024, South Africa exported about $13.7 billion (R274 billion) in agricultural goods, with the EU making up 19 percent—ranking third after Africa and Asia. Citrus fruits, grapes, wines, avocados, nuts, and wool were among the top exports.
Still, all is not smooth sailing. A lingering dispute over citrus imports threatens the relationship. The EU has raised concerns over the “False codling moth,” a citrus pest, requiring strict temperature controls for shipments.
Farmers argue the pest is under control and accuse the EU of using the issue as a barrier to protect local producers—particularly in Spain.
South Africa strengthens EU agricultural trade ties with diplomacy
Despite the hurdles, Mashatile’s diplomatic efforts reflect a clear message: South Africa is serious about deepening EU ties. These efforts complement ongoing talks between President Cyril Ramaphosa and global powers like the United States and China to widen trade opportunities.
But experts warn against abandoning longstanding markets. “We should not replace the EU with new ones,” Sihlobo stressed. “Instead, we need to strengthen all relationships.”
The push for diversification—especially with BRICS countries like India and China—is welcome. But industry leaders emphasize that EU partnerships have stood the test of time and remain vital to South Africa’s export success.
Expanding exports means more jobs and stronger rural economies
Farmers and trade groups say preserving and expanding markets brings tangible benefits to South Africans on the ground.
Bennie van Zyl of TLU SA highlighted the value of existing infrastructure, saying, “It’s important to keep what we’ve built while exploring new frontiers. Exporting more means we can grow more, earn more, and create more local jobs.”
Jaco Minnaar, president of Agri SA, echoed those sentiments. “More exports mean more production and more jobs. It’s about feeding our communities and boosting the economy.”
As South Africa strengthens EU agricultural trade, there’s renewed hope that long-standing issues can be resolved. In doing so, the country moves one step closer to a more resilient and prosperous farming future.
