AgriSA has reacted to the United States’ announced intention to terminate South Africa’s eligibility under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), emphasising that this does not constitute a ban on SA’s agricultural exports.
The leading agricultural body says businesses will remain able to supply American customers, albeit under a more competitive environment, and subject to applicable tariffs and other import requirements.
CEO Johann Kotze says the implications must be assessed accurately and in proportion.
“Neither predictions of a complete market closure nor assurances of a negligible impact adequately reflect the circumstances of individual agricultural industries.”
South Africa’s agricultural exports to the United States totalled an estimated US$504 million in 2025, down approximately 3% from the previous year.
Kotze says this demonstrates the resilience of exporters and established customer relationships during a period of significant tariff uncertainty.
“Annual figures nevertheless conceal differences between products and periods. Some exporters accelerated shipments during the temporary tariff reprieve in 2025, while trade weakened later in the year. Continued exports therefore do not establish that every business maintained its profitability.”
He adds that the additional cost of losing AGOA preferences would vary by product, and he has called for clear information for exporters and practical measures to preserve agricultural competitiveness.
“Although the United States represents a relatively small share of South Africa’s total agricultural exports, it is an important destination for particular producers and regions.”
The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, has said that government is committed to continued dialogue with the US.
Kotze says faster market diversification and domestic reform, including sanitary approvals, reliable ports, effective biosecurity and efficient certification, should also be prioritised.
“Diversification remains essential, but established markets retain their value. New destinations require regulatory approvals, distribution networks and commercially viable demand. Expanding these opportunities should accompany continued efforts to strengthen American trading relationships.”
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) says AGOA is particularly significant for growers in the Western and Northern Cape, where entire communities depend on SA-US trade, with Citrusdal a clear example of how an entire town’s economy is directly tied to competitive access to the US market.
CEO Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele says they hope that a future bilateral agreement between SA and the US will acknowledge the unique place seasonal fresh produce holds in world trade.
