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Trump tariffs unsettle SA farmers as Africa eyes agricultural growth
Trump tariffs unsettle SA farmers as Africa eyes agricultural growth

The Citizen

time11-07-2025

  • Business
  • The Citizen

Trump tariffs unsettle SA farmers as Africa eyes agricultural growth

The overall economic impact on agricultural exports may be modest, but the Western Cape in particular 'could face serious disruption'. Products such as citrus, previously exempt under duty-free access, will now face an uphill battle. Picture: iStock Farmers and analysts have raised concerns over the impact of recently announced US tariffs on South African agricultural exports, warning that although the broader effect may be limited, the consequences for specific regions and commodities could be significant. The issue was highlighted during a panel discussion at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking's Africa Unlocked Conference 2025 – a leading Pan-African event that brings together prominent business leaders and policymakers to discuss the continent's economic future. On Monday 7 July US President Donald Trump followed through on his April threats and hit South Africa with 30% tariffs 'on any and all South African products sent into the United States'. Trump confirmed the decision in an official White House letter addressed to President Cyril Ramaphosa – also shared on Trump's Truth Social platform – stating that the tariffs will take effect from 1 August, unless a new trade deal is reached before August. South Africa is likely to be hardest hit by the new tariffs on vehicle exports as well as steel and aluminium. Read more Ordinary South Africans will feel impact of US tariffs Additionally, agricultural products, previously exempt under duty-free access, will now face the 30% tariff. ALSO READ: Ordinary South Africans will feel impact of US tariffs A hit for agriculture Louw Pienaar, senior analyst at the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP), says the overall exposure of South African agriculture to the US market is limited – around 4% of total exports – but warns that the impact could be severe in certain sectors and provinces. 'If you can't export to the US at a 30% tariff, where will you go?' he asks. 'Citrus, for example – if you move citrus from the US, which is a premium market, then it might mean that prices will fall [elsewhere].' Pienaar made these comments during a panel discussion of the broader exploration of agriculture's role on the African continent. Other panellists included Francois Rossouw, MD of Mooigezicht Estates, which produces table grapes for the export market, and Louis van Ravesteyn, head of agribusiness at Standard Bank. ALSO READ: Trump's new 30% tariff less about trade and more about power However, Pienaar points out that there is still uncertainty about who exactly will foot the bill of the higher tariff. 'Nobody is sure who exactly will pay the tariff. Will it be the end consumer? Will it be SA producers? Or will the value chain absorb that? 'I still think it's going to be a range – if demand is strong enough, the US retailer will pay that. If there's pushback, it will have to change.' Even though the overall economic impact of the tariffs on agricultural exports may be modest, Pienaar warns that the Western Cape in particular could face serious disruption. 'If you're a table grape producer and exported 50% of your exports to the US … then it's going to be a substantial hit.' ALSO READ: US tariff pause ends on 9 July: Tau says what happens now Western Cape suffers Russel Brueton, chief marketing and innovation officer at Wesgro, echoes Pienaar's concerns, saying the tariff uncertainty was already causing paralysis among businesses in the province. 'The supply chains that have been established cannot be changed overnight. Businesses are struggling to plan.' Brueton was part of an earlier panel discussion on the impact of trade wars on Africa, along with Pienaar and Standard Bank chief economist Goolam Ballim. Wesgro, the Western Cape's agency for tourism, trade and investment promotion, noted earlier that exports to the US from the Western Cape totalled R16.2 billion in 2024 – 8% of total Western Cape exports. The US is the second biggest export market for the Western Cape. Products that are exported include citrus, wine, and fruit juice. ALSO READ: China's clever trade deal with Africa – removal of tariffs on most goods AfCFTA slow out of the starting blocks Panellists participating in the trade war discussion reflected on the challenges of intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement . AfCFTA came into effect on 30 May 2019 after 22 countries ratified the agreement. A trade pilot started in October 2022 involving countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda and Egypt. However, challenges remain. The tariff lines of several sectors are still under negotiation, while trade across the continent is hampered by high costs and infrastructure gaps, including inefficient customs procedures and poor cross-border connectivity. There is also limited awareness among businesses of the benefits of AfCFTA, with many governments seemingly preferring bilateral agreements. Pienaar expressed disappointment that countries are not prioritising regional trade. 'Angola imports beef from Brazil, while Zambia is an excellent beef producer,' he says. Ballim notes that Africa's supply chains remain underdeveloped and fragmented. 'Africa doesn't consume what Africa produces,' he says, adding that the creation of regional trading hubs rather than a continental approach will serve African countries better. This article was republished from Moneyweb. Read the original here.

Standard Bank and GIBS launch Youth Forward programme to combat youth unemployment
Standard Bank and GIBS launch Youth Forward programme to combat youth unemployment

IOL News

time30-05-2025

  • Business
  • IOL News

Standard Bank and GIBS launch Youth Forward programme to combat youth unemployment

This initiative is set to empower 50 black youth-owned businesses with essential tools and support to thrive in the current challenging economic landscape. Image: Standard Bank/Facebook As the country gears up to commemorate Youth Month this June, Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, in collaboration with the GIBS Entrepreneurship Development Academy (EDA), is taking action against the rising tide of youth unemployment by launching the 2025 Youth Forward Programme. This initiative is set to empower 50 black youth-owned businesses with essential tools and support to thrive in the current challenging economic landscape. The urgency of this initiative resonates deeply with the latest figures from Statistics South Africa, revealing that youth unemployment for individuals aged 15-34 has surged to a staggering 46.1% in Q1 2025, a notable increase from 44.6% in the previous quarter. Alarmingly, the unemployment rate for youth aged 15-24 stands at 62.4%, emphasising the pressing need for inclusive programmes that break down barriers to economic opportunities for young South Africans. During this significant month, which marks the 1976 Soweto Uprising — a pivotal moment in the fight for equality in education — the focus shifts towards the vital investment in youth development. 'Youth Month is not only a time to reflect on the sacrifices of our young people but also to invest in their future,' said Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise Development at Standard Bank South Africa. 'Through the Youth Forward Programme, we aim to transform the entrepreneurial landscape for black youth, equipping them with the skills, networks, and resources to build sustainable businesses.' This sentiment is echoed by Ms. Guinivere Pedro, Senior Programme Manager for the GIBS EDA, who expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. 'We are excited to continue working with Standard Bank to unlock the potential of young entrepreneurs,' she stated. 'This programme equips participants with practical tools and strategic thinking to sustain and grow their businesses.' The Youth Forward Programme is specifically tailored for entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35, running businesses with at least 51% black ownership and a minimum annual revenue of R100,000. To qualify, applicants must be South African citizens with registered businesses that have been operational for at least 12 months. The programme combines online and in-person learning experiences, with a preference for participants based in Gauteng and neighbouring provinces due to the location of physical sessions in Johannesburg. Successful participants will receive structured business training, mentorship, and access to a valuable network of peers and industry leaders. This initiative is part of Standard Bank BCB's broader commitment to fostering inclusive entrepreneurship through its Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes. These efforts are dedicated to empowering township entrepreneurs to launch, manage, and grow small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), thus making a substantial contribution to South Africa's economic development. If you are a young entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level, this programme presents an exciting opportunity. Applications are open and will close on 3 June 2025. Interested applicants can complete the application process here. BUSINESS REPORT

SA's organic and natural products sector primed for global growth
SA's organic and natural products sector primed for global growth

TimesLIVE

time25-04-2025

  • Business
  • TimesLIVE

SA's organic and natural products sector primed for global growth

'The organic and natural products industry is no longer just a niche market — it's becoming a substantial economic driver with tremendous growth potential,' says Qaanitah Dollie, head of Provincial Enterprise Banking at Standard Bank. 'We're seeing local entrepreneurs successfully building businesses that not only respond to changing consumer preferences but also create sustainable supply chains that benefit entire communities. To ensure that we show up at key moments in the growth journey of businesses in this area, Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking boasts human-led but digitally enabled relationship manager capabilities, digital and digitised banking, a targeted suite of offerings for business, entrenching us as more than a bank.' The natural and organic sector in SA is now valued at about R1bn annually and continues to expand as consumers increasingly prioritise health, sustainability and locally produced goods. International export opportunities, particularly to the American and Chinese markets, further enhance the sector's growth prospects. 'What makes this sector particularly exciting from a banking perspective is the diversity of business models emerging,' says Dollie. From farm-to-table organic food producers to innovative natural cosmetics manufacturers, these businesses are creating new value chains while addressing growing consumer demand for products that are both environmentally and socially responsible. Standard Bank has been actively supporting businesses across the organic products spectrum, including companies such as: Haylur Organics, which specialises in premium organic skincare; The Nuttery, offering ethically sourced natural snacks; Xenith Afrixher, promoting indigenous African beauty ingredients; and French Confectionery, which focuses on organic baked goods.

South Africa's Organic Products Sector Primed for Global Success
South Africa's Organic Products Sector Primed for Global Success

Daily Maverick

time22-04-2025

  • Business
  • Daily Maverick

South Africa's Organic Products Sector Primed for Global Success

The rapidly expanding organic and natural products industry in South Africa presents significant growth opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses. With South Africa's organic food and beverage market projected to grow at 13.25% between 2024-2029, the sector represents a promising avenue for business development, job creation and export diversification. 'The organic and natural products industry is no longer just a niche market – it's becoming a substantial economic driver with tremendous growth potential,' says Qaanitah Dollie, Head of Provincial Enterprise Banking at Standard Bank. 'We're seeing local entrepreneurs successfully building businesses that not only respond to changing consumer preferences but also create sustainable supply chains that benefit entire communities. To ensure that we show up at key moments in the growth journey of businesses in this area, Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking boasts human-led but digitally enabled Relationship Manager capabilities, digital and digitised banking, a targeted suite of offerings for business, entrenching us as more than a bank.' The natural and organic sector in South Africa is currently valued at approximately R1 billion annually and continues to expand as consumers increasingly prioritise health, sustainability, and locally produced goods. International export opportunities, particularly to the American and Chinese markets, further enhance the sector's growth prospects. 'What makes this sector particularly exciting from a banking perspective is the diversity of business models emerging,' adds Dollie. From farm-to-table organic food producers to innovative natural cosmetics manufacturers, these businesses are creating new value chains while addressing growing consumer demand for products that are both environmentally and socially responsible. Standard Bank has been actively supporting businesses across the organic products spectrum, including companies like Haylur Organics, which specialises in premium organic skincare; The Nuttery, offering ethically sourced natural snacks; XenithAfriXher, promoting indigenous African beauty ingredients; and French Confectionery, which focuses on organic baked goods. Akhona Mdawe, founder of Xenith AfriXher, a brand dedicated to sustainable innovation and reproductive health, notes: 'The organic products sector requires specialised knowledge and often different financing approaches compared to conventional businesses. Having a financial partner that understands the unique challenges and opportunities in this space has been crucial to our growth journey.' Research indicates that South African organic products have particular advantages in international markets due to the country's biodiversity, growing seasons that complement Northern Hemisphere markets, and increasing reputation for quality standards. Standard Bank continues to be committed to supporting sustainable business practices and helping South African SMEs access both domestic and international markets: 'We see our role as going beyond traditional banking services,' explains Dollie. 'We're helping to build an ecosystem where businesses can start, manage and grow. This sector represents not just economic opportunity but also aligns with global sustainability goals – making it vital for South Africa's future economic landscape.' DM

South Africa's Organic Products Sector Primed for Global Success
South Africa's Organic Products Sector Primed for Global Success

News24

time22-04-2025

  • Business
  • News24

South Africa's Organic Products Sector Primed for Global Success

The rapidly expanding organic and natural products industry in South Africa presents significant growth opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses. With South Africa's organic food and beverage market projected to grow at 13.25% between 2024-2029, the sector represents a promising avenue for business development, job creation and export diversification. "The organic and natural products industry is no longer just a niche market – it's becoming a substantial economic driver with tremendous growth potential," says Qaanitah Dollie, Head of Provincial Enterprise Banking at Standard Bank. "We're seeing local entrepreneurs successfully building businesses that not only respond to changing consumer preferences but also create sustainable supply chains that benefit entire communities. To ensure that we show up at key moments in the growth journey of businesses in this area, Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking boasts human-led but digitally enabled Relationship Manager capabilities, digital and digitised banking, a targeted suite of offerings for business, entrenching us as more than a bank." The natural and organic sector in South Africa is currently valued at approximately R1 billion annually and continues to expand as consumers increasingly prioritise health, sustainability, and locally produced goods. International export opportunities, particularly to the American and Chinese markets, further enhance the sector's growth prospects. "What makes this sector particularly exciting from a banking perspective is the diversity of business models emerging," adds Dollie. From farm-to-table organic food producers to innovative natural cosmetics manufacturers, these businesses are creating new value chains while addressing growing consumer demand for products that are both environmentally and socially responsible. Standard Bank has been actively supporting businesses across the organic products spectrum, including companies like Haylur Organics, which specialises in premium organic skincare; The Nuttery, offering ethically sourced natural snacks; XenithAfriXher, promoting indigenous African beauty ingredients; and French Confectionery, which focuses on organic baked goods. Akhona Mdawe, founder of Xenith AfriXher, a brand dedicated to sustainable innovation and reproductive health, notes: "The organic products sector requires specialised knowledge and often different financing approaches compared to conventional businesses. Having a financial partner that understands the unique challenges and opportunities in this space has been crucial to our growth journey." Research indicates that South African organic products have particular advantages in international markets due to the country's biodiversity, growing seasons that complement Northern Hemisphere markets, and increasing reputation for quality standards. Standard Bank continues to be committed to supporting sustainable business practices and helping South African SMEs access both domestic and international markets: "We see our role as going beyond traditional banking services," explains Dollie. "We're helping to build an ecosystem where businesses can start, manage and grow. This sector represents not just economic opportunity but also aligns with global sustainability goals – making it vital for South Africa's future economic landscape."

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