“This too shall pass” became the quiet mantra of South African agriculture through months of waiting. And true to that spirit, the sector has begun to find solutions — not through politics, but through its own unstoppable momentum.
For much of 2025, global trade tensions kept farmers and exporters in limbo. U.S. tariffs disrupted markets, agreements with key partners paused, and logistics bottlenecks left crops vulnerable. Many feared a long season of setbacks. Instead, the industry seized control, proving that waiting is no longer an option.
From Waiting to Action
Across fruit, nuts, and horticulture, producers are reshaping their own destiny. Instead of relying on political breakthroughs, they have invested in infrastructure, pushed into Asia and beyond, and built smarter, more resilient export systems. What was once considered weakness — a fragile cold chain, unreliable ports, uncertain markets — is now being turned into strength through innovation and determination.
The result is not one story but many. Stone fruit growers opened new doors in China, citrus farmers delivered record exports, grape producers harnessed digital logistics tools, litchi exporters stood firm in the U.S. despite tariffs, and cherry producers welcomed a season of exceptional quality. Each story is unique, but together they represent a collective shift: from passively enduring global headwinds to actively steering into new opportunities.
Even where challenges remain, such as the expiry of AGOA’s duty-free access for litchis, exporters like Tomahawk have refused to retreat. Instead, they are pressing ahead with full programmes to the U.S. market, proving that resilience and long-term vision are also powerful drivers of momentum.
Momentum in Many Forms
This is more than resilience — it is strategic aggression. Major investments in cold storage, award-winning digital modelling, and bold choices to defend hard-won markets show that South Africa’s agriculture is not just coping, but setting the pace.
Momentum is also being recognised abroad. At the Fruit Attraction trade show in Madrid, South Africa’s presence confirmed its role as a reliable, high-tech supplier, impressing global buyers with both quality produce and digital innovation. Industry leaders, local and national government, and the National Department of Agriculture are moving forward together to gain new markets and sign new agreements, ensuring South Africa’s produce stays competitive on the world stage.
Momentum is also visible in quality and sustainability. This season’s early and abundant Ceres cherry harvest, paired with investments in cooling, packaging, and biodiversity-friendly farming, shows how South African producers are raising the bar to meet global demand for premium, sustainable fruit.
Industry voices have described these breakthroughs as “vital,” “a major step,” and “a turning point.” Each response may differ, but together they form a pattern: momentum built from the ground up, by growers, exporters, and rural communities who refuse to wait for external solutions.
A Turning Point for Agriculture
What once felt like a season of uncertainty has become a season of progress. The stories in this edition highlight how the sector is writing its own playbook, proving that while tariffs and trade politics may be temporary, South Africa’s agricultural resilience — and now its momentum — is permanent.