South African agricultural exports rise 11% as Africa remains biggest market
South African agricultural exports increased by 11% in the first half of 2026, while Africa took about 40% of shipments.
South Africa's agricultural exports rose by 11% in the first half of 2026, with African markets accounting for about 40% of shipments, according to Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo.
Sihlobo told EWN that countries in Southern Africa remained central to the sector's export performance. The basket of goods shipped from South Africa included fresh produce, grains, wine and nuts.
The increase came alongside improved operations at the Port of Durban and ports in the Eastern Cape. Sihlobo said performance was better than before, although the ports were not yet operating at their full potential.
Agriculture remains one of South Africa's important export industries, connecting farms and food processors to neighbouring countries and markets further abroad. Fresh produce and other time-sensitive goods rely heavily on predictable logistics through ports and border posts.
The 11% rise covers the first six months of 2026 and does not represent a full-year result. Export values can shift with harvest volumes, commodity prices, exchange rates and shipping conditions.
Africa's 40% share makes the continent the largest destination group for South African agricultural products. Other major destinations include markets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
The latest figures provide an early view of the sector's trade performance for 2026, with the second half of the year still to be reflected in the annual total.