The imposition of the tariffs on chicken imports and the substantial increase in the production of poultry in South Africa have had the desired effects of exerting downward pressure on the retail price of locally produced chickens, which is, in turn, enhancing their value proposition to hard-pressed consumers. 6 May 2026
In South Africa, meat plays a crucial role in providing households with protein and essential nutrients. According to PMBEJD reports, high food prices have made meat a "luxury" item for low-income South African households, forcing them to reduce consumption or switch to cheaper alternatives. The data indicate that, due to cost constraints, households limit meat purchases to more affordable options like chicken pieces, livers, gizzards, beef, tripe, and sausage. However, local meat production does not always meet the country’s growing demand. As a result, South Africa relies on a balance between meat imports and exports to ensure a stable supply. Maintaining this balance is essential for stabilising food prices, supporting farmers, and ensuring that consumers have consistent access to meat products. 31 Mar 2026
Wesgro has strengthened international trade links through its flagship #MadeInTheCape hosted buyers programme, bringing global procurement leaders to the province to connect with export-ready businesses. 13 Mar 2026
Following Sona 2026, which highlighted agriculture as a rapidly expanding export sector and reaffirmed government’s commitment to infrastructure and global market expansion, the Rooibos industry enters 2026 navigating climatic uncertainty, shifting global trade dynamics and heightened regulatory scrutiny. 18 Feb 2026
South Africa’s citrus industry has delivered a record-breaking performance in the 2025 export season, delivering 203.4 million 15kg cartons to global markets — the highest volume ever recorded and a major milestone for the country’s leading agricultural export sector. 21 Nov 2025
Wesgro has revealed that Reliance Retail, one of India’s largest retailers, is now stocking proudly Made in the Cape products. 17 Sep 2025
South Africa’s fish and seafood sector is showing strong export performance, outpacing inflation. 4 Jul 2025
South Africa's export potential holds strong despite recent high-profile public spectacles, like the Oval Office meeting between President Ramaphosa and President Trump. Behind-the-scenes reports suggest more positive and constructive engagements beyond closed doors. 3 Jun 2025
International trade tariffs play a pivotal role in shaping global commerce. They are essential for maintaining market competitiveness and protecting local industries. However, their impact can be particularly pronounced for developing countries. 9 May 2025
Africa’s AfCFTA trade agreement is the world’s largest free trade bloc. It opens access to potential markets of about 1.3 billion people and an estimated combined GDP of $3.4tn. Still, as delegates attending the Standard Bank Africa Unlocked conference in Cape Town heard recently, intra-African trade, at 16%, lags far behind other blocs. 4 Oct 2024
South Africa’s wine industry is poised for a comeback, driven by rising local demand and the growing popularity of white wines like Cap Classique and Chenin Blanc in China. Exports of Cap Classique to China rose by 4% in 2023, despite a decline in overall wine exports. 1 Oct 2024
A Mamelodi-based detergents company is determined to take full advantage of the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme and export their products to international markets. 19 Sep 2024
Children walk past a vegetable stall in Soweto 23 July 2015. Reuters/Siphiwe Sibeko/file photo
South Africa's current account deficit widened sharply in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 2.3% of gross domestic product (GDP) from a revised 0.5% of GDP in the third quarter, central bank data showed on Thursday, 7 March. 7 Mar 2024
In the huge landscape of global economy, the wine industry emerges as a prominent player, not only for its cultural and gastronomic value but also for its significant economic impact on multiple countries. 8 Feb 2024
Ghana, like many other developing nations, relies heavily on imports of food and consumer goods to feed its population. For instance, Ghana imports 55% of the rice that is consumed locally. The country’s import dependence is primarily a consequence of the production of low-value primary products without substantial value addition. 23 Jan 2024
The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition announced on Tuesday, 9 January 2024, that the Chinese government has decided to slash tariffs on rooibos tea to 6%, down from its previous range of between 15% and 30%. 10 Jan 2024
The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) has urged government to consider retaliation mechanisms against the Government of Kenya, for what they termed as ill treatment of Uganda and severe injury to investment. 27 Oct 2023
Wrenelle Stander, Wesgro CEO, was joined by Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, and the City of Cape Town Mayoral Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, Alderman James Vos, for a ribbon cutting to mark the official opening of the Cape Market, a retail showcase for the month of October. 10 Oct 2023
The anti-dumping tariffs on French fries placed on three European countries by the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (Itac) have lapsed. 1 Feb 2023
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