South Africa's agribusiness should keep a close eye on the rest of Africa

The article emphasizes the importance of South Africa's agricultural exports, with a significant focus on the African continent, which makes up 37% of the country's total agricultural exports. The main exports to the continent include maize, apples, wheat, animal feed, prepared foods, wine, fruit juices, and alcoholic beverages. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the European Union (EU) are key regions for South Africa's export growth. The article also discusses the potential impact of weather conditions and higher fertilizer prices on crop yields in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, and the possibility of South Africa exporting maize to these countries in the 2023/24 marketing year. Additionally, it mentions the potential increase in Kenya's maize imports and the legal challenges facing the importation of genetically modified maize in the country. The article stresses the need for South Africa to monitor the African market closely and increase supplies where possible, and for the South African agribusiness community and government to maintain engagement with their African counterparts to address trade concerns and opportunities.