South Africa turns to BRICS+ to expand agricultural exports and reduce market risk.Tariff limits remain a challenge, but integration promises broader access. BRICS+ alignment boosts resilience and food security for the Global South.
South Africa is seeking to secure its position in the global agricultural market by leveraging the BRICS+ expansion and commitments made under the 2025 Rio Declaration. With nearly 70% of its farm products bound for export, Pretoria is turning toward Asian, Latin American, and African partners to diversify destinations and shield its economy from Western trade volatility.
The country faces structural constraints—its average agricultural tariff stands at 11.4%, and only 41.5% of tariff lines are bound, limiting flexibility in trade negotiations. Yet, through deeper integration with BRICS+, South Africa aims to gain preferential access, harmonize standards, and promote digital trade in agricultural goods.
Officials argue that the bloc’s growing influence offers South Africa a pathway to stabilize exports, attract agri-investment, and strengthen food security while asserting greater independence from Western-dominated trade systems.