South Africa has officially begun exporting plums to China, marking a major milestone for the country’s agricultural sector. Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng oversaw the preparation of the first shipment at the Freshness First Packhouse in Franschhoek, consisting of around 20,000 cartons of African Delight and Ruby Star plums.
The export follows a bilateral trade agreement granting zero tariffs for South African agricultural products entering China, enhancing the competitiveness of local farmers. South Africa currently holds just 0.4% of China’s $200 billion annual agricultural imports, but officials are optimistic that this initial shipment will help grow the sector and double export value from the current R400 million over the next four years.
“This shipment represents not just an opportunity but a strategic necessity for South Africa’s agricultural growth,” said Steenhuisen, highlighting the collaboration with China to open the market. Plans are already underway to extend trade access to cherries and blueberries later this year.
The initiative is expected to create roughly 350 new jobs directly on farms and in packhouses, with an additional 600 roles in related industries such as logistics, transport, and packaging. Enhanced infrastructure investments in ports, railways, and highways are also set to improve market access for South African farmers, aligning with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Steenhuisen noted that the partnership strengthens South Africa’s long-standing trade ties with China and positions the country to benefit from increased agricultural exports, job creation, and sustained economic growth.