In 2023, the main imports were electrical and electronic equipment ($7.7bn), machinery ($4bn), vehicles ($1bn) and iron and steel ($623 million).
Local growers currently spend approximately R3.7 billion annually to comply with EU measures.
If it continues on its current trajectory, it may even reach a point where it could battle to meet demand.
“Current market conditions do not support the need for multiple transportation methods.” - United Manganese of Kalahari
Increased local production and exports to meet rising demand will generate additional tax revenue to support the fiscus, says Sapa.
It comes after the finalisation of a long-awaited phytosanitary agreement between South Africa and India.
The Transnet-ABC agreement includes fully developing the South Corridor from Gauteng to Gqberha.
The benefits to poor people will be the focus of the submission.
A lack of water is a hidden and growing driver of hunger that affects one in every 11 people, the WRI says.
