South African exporters pivot to BRICS markets amid rising fruit volumes

South African food and agricultural exporters are increasingly pivoting toward China and other BRICS nations to diversify their international footprint and hedge against trade friction in traditional markets. Companies operating within the Coega Special Economic Zone are targeting growth in China, India, and Russia to absorb increasing agricultural output.

DC Foods is currently finalizing regulatory procedures to launch its frozen fruit and sorbet products into the Chinese market. Meanwhile, fruit exporter Coegapack noted that robust demand from BRICS markets is essential for sustaining industry development.

As export volumes rise, pest management has become critical for maintaining market access. South Africa reported exporting approximately 2.9 million tonnes of citrus in 2025, a 22% increase from the previous season. To mitigate risks from pests like the Mediterranean fruit fly, the country utilizes the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), which has successfully reduced wild Medfly populations by 73% in targeted areas.