South Africa’s (SA) export sector is set for a major boost following the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) through December 2028 and a new trade agreement expanding fresh citrus access to India.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni outlined the developments during a post-cabinet media briefing, confirming that the AGOA extension preserves preferential access for eligible SA products to the United States market, supporting ongoing investment, export growth, and domestic job creation.
Cabinet also welcomed a bilateral agreement with India that expands cold-treatment protocols for SA fresh citrus shipments. The deal grants local producers increased logistical flexibility and direct access to one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.
As the world’s second-largest citrus exporter, having shipped 2.9 million tons globally in 2025, SA relies heavily on its citrus industry to sustain thousands of jobs across agricultural, packing, and logistics supply chains.
–ChannelAfrica–
