As we enter the second week of January, markets are opening up around the world and especially in Africa. Experts say there are many opportunities for South African farmers. The exchange rate remains a challenge for South Africa, but is a positive factor for export companies. Experts believe South African farmers can find a lucrative export market this year, especially in African countries.

Uzair Essack, fruit exporter and managing director of Riyp, believes that there are always opportunities in every product and that every year, by looking at the global market and industry conditions, export opportunities can be found.

For example, last year Peru had a problem with blueberries and because of this, South Africa had a much better blueberry season. Therefore, each year, products are evaluated taking into account the different conditions from one season to the next.”

This year, compared to last, according to Essack, offers better export opportunities, adding that more markets are slowly opening and more products are being allowed into new markets, such as avocados now being exported to China.