The South African fresh fruit industry exports >60% of its premium-quality fruit to >100 destinations worldwide. From this, >320 000 on-farm employees are able to sustain their >1.2 million dependents.

Asia being integral to the industry market diversification strategy, the industry is pleased that through the China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development, South Africa recently became the 33rd African country to sign a framework agreement for zero-tariff trade with China. This holds much potential for bilateral trade and economic relations.

And so far in 2026, the first shipments of South African nectarines, prunes and plums have reached China, and table grapes have gained access to the Korean Republic.

Fruit South Africa harnesses the collective efforts of key industry players, other agricultural stakeholders, and government leaders to drive its market-access strategy to gain, retain and optimise (GRO) global markets.