Franschhoek: South Africa is marking a significant milestone in agricultural trade, with the country's first consignment of stone fruit having departed for China. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, accompanied by the People's Republic of China Ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, visited the Freshness First Packhouse in Franschhoek where the inaugural shipment was prepared for export.

According to South African Government News Agency, the consignment comprises approximately 20,000 cartons of premium plums, primarily the African Delight and Ruby Star varieties. This shipment marks the official commencement of the stone fruit trade protocol, a move set to transform the local deciduous fruit industry. Speaking at the event, Steenhuisen highlighted that the opening of this Chinese market is no longer just an aspiration, but a fundamental necessity for South Africa's economic growth.

The export follows the signing of a bilateral trade agreement granting South African produce 0% tariff access to the Chinese market, significantly enhancing the global competitiveness of local growers. China imports approximately $200 billion worth of agricultural products annually, with South Africa currently holding a modest 0.4% market share. Steenhuisen said the country aims to drastically expand its footprint, with plans to double the current R400 million export value over the next four years.

The plum shipment is the first phase of a broader expansion strategy. Steenhuisen confirmed that the government is in the final stages of concluding a trade protocol for cherries, with a blueberries protocol expected later this year. He commended industry leaders, growers, and packhouse staff for their efforts in meeting the rigorous phytosanitary standards required to access the Chinese market, describing their efforts as instrumental in securing the breakthrough.