The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) commends Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, for successfully restoring South Africa's access to the Thai market for fresh apple exports. This market had been closed for approximately 16 years, from January 2008 to December 2024, due to changes in Thailand's import requirements.
Apples are a significant part of South Africa's deciduous fruit sector, contributing substantially to foreign exchange earnings and employment. The industry is heavily export-oriented, with about half of all apples produced destined for international markets.
According to Hortgro, the deciduous fruit industry research body, South African apple exports have increased by 40% over the past decade. This growth has been largely driven by demand in the Far East and Asia, which now account for approximately 35% of all South African apple exports.
KwaZulu-Natal, with its diverse agricultural landscape, stands to benefit significantly from this development. While the province is primarily known for sugar, citrus, macadamia nuts, and avocados, the reopening of the Thai market presents an opportunity to diversify and expand its export portfolio.
Minister Steenhuisen's achievement should now catalyze broader trade initiatives. The government must continue to secure access to additional international markets to ensure that all farmers, particularly KZN's emerging and small-scale producers, benefit from global trade opportunities. The DA calls on both national and provincial governments to prioritize trade negotiations that will open doors to markets across Asia, the Middle East, and other regions.
Additionally, there must be a concerted effort to invest in agricultural infrastructure, logistics, and support services to enable KZN's farming sector to meet international standards and thrive in the competitive global market.
The DA remains committed to advocating for policies that foster agricultural growth, job creation, and economic inclusion. As part of KZN's Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), the DA will continue working towards expanding market access, supporting farmers, and driving economic prosperity in the province.
For more information:
DA
Tel: +27 031 263 0351
Email: [email protected]
www.kzn.da.org.za