For several reasons, agricultural exports are important to South Africa, and strengthening current ties in the industry can positively impact the economy. John Hudson, head of agriculture at Nedbank, shares some important information regarding the value of agricultural exports to South Africa and how to strengthen current partnerships.
In the episode, Hudson can be heard breaking down the current status of South Africa’s agricultural sector, and why he believes it is important for the country to remain in a strong export position.
Citrus takes the cake
“We had three years of record exports and that culminated in 2022 with the sector exporting 12.8 billion US dollars and topping that was citrus, emphasising the value the sector brings to the table,” he says.
He also shares why it is critical for Mzansi to find new markets currently.
On a knife’s edge
While the export industry faces many challenges, according to Hudson, nurturing those relationships remains a priority. He references the EU regulations as having a massive impact on the export market for the citrus industry.
“There is a massive impact … It emphasises the need to nurture existing relationships. If you look at the tension and the diplomatic spat, for example, AGOA was one of the main talking points and South Africa remains a part of it. That type of talk and impact isn’t good for the sector,” he explains.
In this episode, Hudson also discusses:
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
- EU green deal and stringent requirements;
- How sectors within Mzansi can come together; and
- Finding new markets.
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