South Africa secures cherry export access to China

South Africa has secured market access for cherry exports to China following the signing of a phytosanitary protocol in Beijing. The agreement was finalized by South African Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp and Sun Meijun of the General Administration of Chinese Customs.

This development allows South African growers to supply the Chinese market during an early-season window, with fruit expected to arrive around week 44. This precedes the typical arrival of Chilean cherries, which usually begins around week 49. The agreement also eliminates tariffs on these exports.

China’s cherry import market is significant, with total imports reaching approximately 586,900 tonnes in 2025, valued at US$3.3 billion. While exporters face challenges regarding fruit size preferences in China, industry experts believe South African eating quality will serve as a key competitive advantage.