First shipment of South African avocados arrives in China

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has hailed the South African avocado industry’s active pursuit of international markets.

Last week saw the arrival of the season’s first batch of avocados in Shanghai, China.

“The expansion of markets stimulates the demand for South African products, and this demand in turn, drives economic growth and job creation across the sector. This ‘early bird shipment’ to China is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and strategic foresight within our avocado industry,” Steenhuisen said.

Private sector investment

The Minister noted that South Africa’s position as a major player in the global avocado market was supported by private sector investment made by companies like ZZ2, a leading farming conglomerate, in cutting-edge packhouses and nurseries, Core Fruit’s well-established expertise in exports, and Mission Produce’s global reach.

He also noted that South Africa holds a distinct logistical advantage compared to major competitors like Peru, thanks to shorter shipping times to China.

“This logistical edge, coupled with ZZ2’s early production timing, allows South African avocados to access the Chinese market during a period of lower supply.”

In August 2023, South Africa and China concluded a phytosanitary agreement that saw the first 21 tons South African avocados from Westfalia Fruits arriving in Shanghai on 8 October 2024.

With the 2024 shipment, South Africa became the third African nation to enter the Chinese market, following Kenya and Tanzania.

Expanding market access for South African agriculture remains one of Steenhuisen’s priorities.

Are you a big fan of avocados?

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