South Africa restores access to Thai apple market after 16-year ban

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa has regained access to the Thai market for fresh apple exports after being locked out for 16 years due to changes in Thailand’s import regulations.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has welcomed the breakthrough, praising Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen for facilitating the reopening of this critical market.

The ban, which had been in effect from January 2008 to December 2024, severely limited South Africa’s ability to export apples to Thailand, a country with a strong demand for high-quality fruit imports.

Apples are a key part of South Africa’s deciduous fruit industry, contributing significantly to export revenue and employment. According to Hortgro, a leading research body in the industry, apple exports from South Africa have increased by 40% over the past decade.

The demand from the Far East and Asia has played a major role in this growth, with these regions now accounting for about 35% of all South African apple exports.

KwaZulu-Natal, while primarily known for sugar, citrus, macadamia nuts, and avocados, stands to benefit from the expanded market access. With the reopening of the Thai market, the province has an opportunity to increase its export portfolio and strengthen its agricultural economy.

Minister Steenhuisen’s success in restoring access to the Thai market is expected to drive further trade negotiations.

The DA has urged both national and provincial governments to continue efforts to secure access to more international markets, ensuring that emerging and small-scale farmers also benefit.

“The government must remain proactive in opening doors for our farmers to markets across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond,” a DA spokesperson said.

Beyond trade agreements, agricultural infrastructure, logistics, and compliance with international standards remain crucial. The DA has called for more investment in these areas to ensure that farmers can compete in global markets.

The party has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for policies that promote agricultural growth, job creation, and economic development.

As part of KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), the DA has pledged to continue working toward expanding market access and supporting the region’s farmers.

South Africa’s agricultural sector has received further positive news as Botswana has lifted its ban on vegetable imports from the country.

This decision is expected to provide relief for farmers in the North West province, who have struggled since the restrictions were put in place.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has welcomed the decision, highlighting its importance in reviving cross-border trade and economic activity.

The ban had disrupted farmers’ ability to sell produce to one of their key markets, causing financial strain across the sector.

The lifting of the ban will take place in two phases. The first phase, which began on December 13, 2024, allows the export of turmeric, patty pan, pumpkin, green peas, mushrooms, and eggplants.

A second phase, set for April 2025, will include additional vegetables such as beetroot, butternut, onions, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, sweet pepper, potatoes, and watermelon.

MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Madoda Sambatha expressed optimism, stating, “We welcome Botswana’s decision to reopen its market to our vegetable exports. This is a victory for our farmers, who have been eager to resume trade with our neighboring country. We remain committed to fostering agricultural partnerships that benefit both nations.”

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