China’s decision to phase out import tariffs on South African apples and pears is set to transform the country’s fruit export industry, with early signs already pointing to strong growth in trade volumes.
Following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CAEPA) between South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and China, exporters expect improved market access and stronger competitiveness in the Asian giant’s retail sector.
Leading fruit exporter Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing has described the agreement as a breakthrough moment for the industry. The company confirmed that its apple and pear export volumes to China rose by 35% between 2024 and 2025, reflecting growing demand and deeper market penetration.
China first opened its doors to South African apples in 2015 and later approved pear imports in 2021. Initially, export volumes remained modest. However, exporters steadily built relationships, strengthened supply chains and improved cold chain management. As a result, shipments have increased sharply year after year.
Managing Director Roelf Pienaar said the upward trend signals strong long-term potential. He noted that although China still accounts for a smaller portion of total exports, the consistent growth trajectory creates confidence for future expansion.
Most importantly, the CAEPA deal will gradually remove China’s current 10% import tariff on South African apples and pears. Full duty-free access will take effect on 1 May 2026. This move will level the playing field against major competitors such as New Zealand, which already enjoys favourable trade conditions in Asian markets.
Industry leaders believe that tariff elimination will significantly enhance price competitiveness. Exporters will be able to position premium varieties such as Gala, Flash Gala, Royal Beaut, Fuji, Envy and Forelle pears more aggressively within China’s high-value retail segment.
At the same time, Pienaar stressed that broader tariff reforms remain critical. South African apples currently face a steep 50% import tariff in India, while pears attract duties of between 30% and 35%. These high costs reduce global competitiveness and limit expansion into fast-growing consumer markets.
Similarly, exporters encounter tariff barriers in the United Kingdom and across the European Union, where South Africa pays higher duties than several Southern Hemisphere competitors. Consequently, producers must manage tight margins, as tariffs directly affect final shelf prices in overseas supermarkets.
Beyond China, diversification remains a strategic priority. Over the past decade, South Africa expanded access across Asia, moving beyond traditional hubs such as Malaysia and Singapore. Today, exporters ship apples and pears to Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, strengthening resilience in the Far East programme.
Moreover, the industry is optimistic about securing market access to the Philippines in the near future. Stakeholders also hope that Taiwan will reopen to South African apples, further expanding export destinations.
Trade analysts argue that diversified market access allows producers to sell every grade, size and variety efficiently. In addition, it reduces dependency on a single destination and protects the sector from geopolitical or economic shocks.
With China set to remove tariffs completely by 2026, South Africa’s apple and pear industry stands at a pivotal moment. Stronger bilateral trade ties, improved competitiveness and sustained export growth could unlock new investment, create jobs and boost agricultural GDP.
As global demand for premium fruit rises, the CAEPA agreement positions South Africa to compete more effectively in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
Source: Food For Mzansi
