Westfalia Fruit Expands South Africa’s Avocado Exports with First Official Shipment to China

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa is set to expand its avocado exports to China following the successful market opening, with a 40-foot container carrying 21 tons of avocados already shipped in 2024. This shipment represents a mere 0.03% of South Africa’s total avocado exports of 81,012 tons but marks a significant step towards long-term trade relations with China. 

Testing Market Compliance and Reception 

Westfalia Fruit’s initial shipment was designed to test compliance with China’s strict import protocols and gauge consumer response to Hass avocados. The success of this initial export has bolstered confidence in increasing shipments during the 2025 season. 

Derek Donkin, CEO of the South African Subtropical Growers’ Association, emphasized the growth potential in China, where avocado consumption is on the rise. “The Chinese market is still developing, but the growing upper-middle class presents a major opportunity for South African avocados,” he noted. 

Hans Boyum, Commercial Director for Africa at Westfalia Fruit, echoed this optimism, highlighting the benefits of shorter shipping times compared to competitors. “South Africa can position itself as a reliable supplier with a fresher product due to shorter transit times,” Boyum stated. However, he stressed the importance of strong distribution networks and consumer education to sustain demand. 

Challenges and Market Growth 

While South Africa's initial shipment was a trial run, early indicators suggest significant growth potential. However, local exporters will face competition from established suppliers like Mexico and Peru. Boyum warned that sudden spikes in supply could negatively affect pricing, stating, “The Chinese market is sensitive to oversupply, and we have seen significant negative impacts on pricing when supply surges unexpectedly.” 

To ensure stability, exporters must carefully manage shipments and invest 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 challenge. Donkin stressed 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.

Strengthening South Africa’s Global Fruit Trade 

South African fruit exports continue to grow across multiple markets. In addition to avocados, South Africa recently made strides in citrus exports, sending its first shipment of lemons for the 2025 season to India. 

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 global trade presence.

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