Westfalia fruit expands SA avocado exports with first official shipment to China

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa is set to expand its avocado exports to China following the recent market opening with a 40-foot container with 21 tons of avocados already been shipped in 2024.

This accounts for a mere 0.03% of South Africa’s total avocado exports of 81,012 tons.

Westfalia Fruit’s initial shipment served to test the company’s compliance with China’s import protocols and gauge the market’s reception of Hass avocados.

“Based on the success of the first container, we have the confidence to increase shipments during the 2025 season,” Boyum remarked.

Derek Donkin, CEO of the South African Subtropical Growers’ Association, emphasized the potential for expansion in China, where avocado consumption is rising.

“The Chinese market is still developing, but the growing upper-middle class presents a major opportunity for South African avocados,” he said.

Hans Boyum, commercial director for Africa at Westfalia Fruit, echoed this optimism, citing an increase in consumer awareness about the fruit’s nutritional value.

“South Africa can position itself as a reliable supplier with a fresher product due to shorter shipping times than those of our competitors,” Boyum stated.

He also highlighted the need for strong distribution networks and consumer education, adding that success in China would depend on sustained efforts to build demand.

Market growth and challenges

China’s avocado market is still developing, with local consumers gradually warming up to the fruit. While South Africa’s initial shipment was primarily a trial run to ensure compliance with China’s import requirements, early signs indicate potential for growth.

South African exporters face challenges, including competition from established suppliers like Mexico and Peru. Boyum noted that sudden spikes in supply could negatively affect pricing.

“The Chinese market is sensitive to oversupply, and we have seen significant negative impacts on pricing after sudden surges in supply that are not balanced to market demands,” he explained.

To ensure stability, exporters must carefully manage shipments while investing in local partnerships and marketing initiatives.

Expanding Beyond China

Beyond China, South Africa has also gained access to the Indian market for avocado exports. However, high import tariffs remain a major concern.

Donkin pointed out that a trade agreement between South Africa and India would be necessary to make exports more competitive. Currently, 95% of South Africa’s avocado exports are directed to the European Union, the United Kingdom, Russia, and the Baltic states, with another 2.5% heading to the Middle East.

Meanwhile, South African citrus exports are also making strides. The country recently sent its first shipment of lemons for the 2025 season to India, an important step for the citrus industry.

The shipment, delivered by FruitOne, arrived at Jawaharlal Nehru Port, where it was received by importers IG International.

“This shipment signifies the strong trade relationship between South Africa and India. It starts the season and hopefully also starts an era of increased exports and opportunities for our two countries,” said Boitshoko Ntshabele, CEO of the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA).

With growing demand from Asia and strategic market positioning, South African fruit exporters are steadily strengthening their presence on the global stage.

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