The Middle East is enhancing its economic connections with Africa, as highlighted by a recent article in The Economist titled "The Gulf's scramble for Africa is reshaping the continent". This relationship is characterized by an increase in geopolitical ties and substantial investments in infrastructure, notably in ports across various African nations. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are at the forefront of this engagement. For nations such as South Africa, which has broad international interests, the Middle East's intensified focus on Africa necessitates active involvement to attract investments and open markets for export sectors.
However, in the realm of agricultural markets, South Africa's role is relatively minor within key Middle Eastern economies. According to Trade Map data, Saudi Arabia's agricultural imports in 2022 amounted to US$29.5 billion, with South Africa contributing just 1% and ranking 31st. Similarly, the UAE, with agricultural imports of US$23.3 billion, saw South Africa holding a 2% share and ranking 16th. Qatar's agricultural imports stood at US$3.9 billion, with South Africa ranked 10th, also with a 2% share. These figures underscore the peripheral position of South Africa in the agricultural import markets of these Middle Eastern countries.
Click here to read the full article.
Source: agbiz.co.za
Photo source: Dreamstime.com
