South Africa boosts agricultural exports as shipments to US rise

South Africa’s agricultural exports rose by 10% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026 to $4.1 billion, setting a record for the period. Growth was supported by higher shipment volumes and stronger agricultural commodity prices, Bloomberg reported, citing the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz).

Agricultural shipments to the US also recovered significantly. In the second quarter, exports to the US increased by 56% compared with the previous quarter, although they remained below the level recorded a year earlier. Trade was supported by a decline in the effective US tariff rate from 30% to 12.5%.

Other African countries remain the key destination for South Africa’s agricultural exports, accounting for around 40% of total shipments. Export performance was also supported by improved operations at the Port of Cape Town, helping ensure more stable agricultural shipments.

Agriculture remains one of the most resilient sectors of South Africa’s economy. Over the past two decades, the country has steadily expanded agricultural exports, supported by growth in citrus, other fruit and nut production, alongside significant corn shipments.

South Africa has also harvested a record corn crop this year, further supporting the country’s export potential. However, corn and other crop production could decline next season due to the expected El Niño weather pattern, which typically brings drier conditions to Southern Africa.

Tags: export, grain, USA, South Africa, corn