A reported zero-tariff arrangement supporting South African blueberry access to China could create an important opportunity for the country’s agricultural exporters, but the details of the arrangement and its accessibility to family farmers must first be verified.
The issue is rather urgent as blueberry farmers are facing increased competition from Zimbabwe on the local market, fuelled by cheaper and more productive labour after the xenophobic campaigns which saw many experienced farm workers fleeing back to Zimbabwe.
China, as a key market for blueberries and zero-tariff access can be a critical boost for South African blueberry exports.
Saai said the potential opportunity should be assessed not only in terms of headline market access, but also in terms of whether farmers can meet the relevant phytosanitary, traceability, quality, packaging, cold-chain and logistics requirements.
Expanded access to China could support export growth and contribute to rural economic activity, provided that smaller and family-owned producers are not excluded by compliance costs, infrastructure constraints, concentrated buyer power or limited access to reliable export channels.
Saai also supports a balanced approach to export expansion. Diversification can reduce dependence on a narrow group of markets, while responsible planning is needed to manage market concentration, production risk and the potential effects of changing international trade conditions.
Saai will support further engagement once the relevant authorities and industry bodies have confirmed the terms of the reported access and its likely impact across the blueberry value chain.
