China Trade Deal Opens R400 Million Market For South African Stone Fruit Growers

South Africa’s stone fruit sector has secured a significant breakthrough with the signing of a new trade protocol between the country and China.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen formalised the agreement in Shanghai, granting South African farmers access to one of the world’s largest markets for five stone fruit varieties — apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, and prunes.

This milestone marks the first time China has approved multiple stone fruit types from a single nation under one trade deal, setting a new benchmark for agricultural cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Steenhuisen described the agreement as a “major breakthrough”, highlighting its role in strengthening agricultural resilience and diversifying South Africa’s export markets. He added that the expanded access would help offset the economic impact of recent US tariffs on plums.

R400 Million Growth Opportunity Over the Next Decade

According to Steenhuisen, the Chinese market has the potential to generate R400 million in export value for South Africa over the next five years, with the figure likely to double within ten years as trade deepens.

The first export season, expected to begin in 2025/26, is projected to bring in R28 million in revenue. In addition to economic growth, the Minister noted that the agreement could create around 350 new direct jobs on farms and in packhouses across the country within the next decade.

“This is a game-changing opportunity for our fruit growers and exporters, providing stability and new income streams for rural communities,” Steenhuisen said.

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During the trade discussions, Minister Steenhuisen also addressed the resumption of South African beef exports to China and invited a Chinese technical delegation to visit the country for inspections.

The visit could pave the way for future agreements expanding market access for cherries and blueberries, further enhancing South Africa’s agricultural trade profile.

The landmark deal signals a new era of cooperation between South Africa and China, promising sustained growth for local producers and stronger ties in global agri-trade.

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