by Wandile Sihlobo | Dec 18, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
In the third quarter of 2022, the value of South Africa’s agricultural exports — food, fibre, and beverages — amounted to $3,7bn, up 10% year on year. The main factors underpinning this are sizeable agricultural output in the 2021/22 production season and higher commodity prices.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Dec 13, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
South Africa’s agricultural growth path needs a focused trade policy strategy, but this should not be at the expense of existing agreements that have sustained the sector over the years.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Oct 11, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
One major challenge that emerged this past week that directly impacts South Africa’s agriculture is labour-related tensions at Transnet. The logistics utility declared a force majeure at its port operations last week, citing an illegal strike.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Oct 6, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
South Africa’s agricultural exports are vulnerable because of reliance on a few markets and weaknesses in domestic logistics chains.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Sep 5, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
Trade is at the core of SA’s agricultural progress. But the past few months brought challenges in key markets such as China and the EU, threatening SA’s export activity. Fortunately, some of these challenges have now been resolved, and SA could see continuous exports, specifically to China.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Sep 4, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
As we continue to struggle with foot-and-mouth disease in the cattle industry, changes to the plant safety regulations in the EU affecting our exports, and the temporary ban on vegetable exports to Namibia and Botswana, the newfound collaborative approach between the government and industry will be a key to finding a productive path for the good of SA’s agriculture.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Aug 21, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
SA’s agricultural export activity is likely to soften this year from the 2021 record of $12.4bn. Lower production of key crops, the spread of animal disease and changes in phytosanitary regulations in key markets such as the EU will all weigh on export activity this year.
by Wandile Sihlobo | Jul 25, 2022 | Agricultural Trade
If Russia keeps to the deal it has signed with Ukraine allowing for the resumption of grain exports, much-needed relief will be provided to importing countries, including many in Africa.