English and Afrikaans soundbites by Willie Aucamp MP.
- New trade protocol opens Chinese market to SA stone fruit.
- Minister Steenhuisen’s leadership boosts jobs and export growth.
- Agricultural diplomacy delivering real results for South Africa.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the signing of a landmark stone fruit trade agreement between South Africa and China, concluded today by Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and China’s Minister Sun Meijun in Shanghai.
For the first time, South African apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, and prunes will reach Chinese consumers. This is an unprecedented move that sees China negotiating access for several stone fruit varieties from a single country under one protocol.
This breakthrough will bring much-needed relief to South African producers and farmworkers.
Minister Steenhuisen’s consistent focus on market diversification and export expansion is paying off. By opening doors in Asia and other high-demand regions, he is helping South African agriculture become more competitive, less dependent on traditional buyers, and better shielded from global trade shocks.
The DA commends the Minister’s hands-on approach to strengthening agricultural trade and protecting rural livelihoods. This latest success reflects what can be achieved when government and industry work together to build opportunity, confidence, and long-term growth for South African farmers.