South Africa: Growing Trade Opportunities for U.S. and South African Organic Food

Though relatively small, the South African organic foods market is steadily growing as evidenced by the increase in certified farms from 35 in 1999, to 250 in 2018, and by the growth in the range of organic products offered by retailers, food markets and specialty shops. In 2018, South Africa enjoyed a favorable organic food trade balance with the United States, exporting US$1.3 million in range of products including organic wine, green tea, extra virgin olive oil, honey and blueberries. In the same year, U.S. organic food exports to South Africa amounted to US$0.5 million, and consisted of mainly vinegar and substitutes, tomato sauce, prepared vegetables and fruits and coffee. Due to the growth in demand and limited production of certain organic products in South Africa, there may be opportunities for other U.S. organic food products such as dried fruit and nuts, dairy products, organic feed, premium beef, and processed products.

South Africa: Growing Trade Opportunities for U.S. and South African Organic Food