OPINION: Continuously building friendships should be South Africa’s agricultural trade approach.
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GUEST - Wandile Sihlobo is the Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz)
At a time of heightened geoeconomic tensions, it is tempting to argue that countries, industries and businesses must align with particular interests or regions. For businesses and industries, the ideal path should be to remain neutral and continue to broaden business activity with a wider range of countries.This is especially critical for South Africa’s agriculture. The sector is export-oriented, with exports reaching a record US$13,7 billion in 2024, up 3% year-on-year. The export markets and products are varied, with the African continent absorbing nearly half, while the EU, Middle and Asia, and the UK are also sizable markets. South Africa should not rest on this success but should maintain and deepen trade relations in regions where capacity remains.
At a time of heightened geoeconomic tensions, it is tempting to argue that countries, industries and businesses must align with particular interests or regions. For businesses and industries, the ideal path should be to remain neutral and continue to broaden business activity with a wider range of countries.This is especially critical for South Africa’s agriculture. The sector is export-oriented, with exports reaching a record US$13,7 billion in 2024, up 3% year-on-year. The export markets and products are varied, with the African continent absorbing nearly half, while the EU, Middle and Asia, and the UK are also sizable markets. South Africa should not rest on this success but should maintain and deepen trade relations in regions where capacity remains.
