Zero-Tariff Policy Set To Boost Appeal of South African Pecans Among Chinese Traders

During the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation, which was held in Changsha in June 2025, China announced that it would implement a policy granting zero-tariff treatment on 100% of tariff lines for all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations.

As one of China’s key trading partners in Africa, South Africa has seen strong momentum in its economic and trade relations with China. The new zero-tariff policy is expected to further stimulate bilateral trade and bring tangible benefits to people on both sides.

In recent years, South Africa has overtaken the United States to become China’s largest supplier of imported pecans. This shift has been driven by South Africa’s favorable growing conditions, steadily expanding production capacity and stable trade ties with China. According to the South African Pecan Nut Producers Association, the country’s pecan industry achieved two new records in 2024: total production reached an all-time high of 37,157 metric tons, while in-shell exports hit a record 33,708 metric tons.

Speaking about the 2025 season, Cobus van Rensburg, general manager of SAPPA, shared an official forecast with Produce Report. As the harvest season progresses, South Africa’s pecan industry continues its robust growth. So far, 19,517 metric tons have been harvested, and this season’s total output is projected to reach between 40,000 and 45,000 metric tons. The quality of this year’s crop has been excellent, supported by strict quality control throughout processing. On the sales side, performance has exceeded expectations, with faster-than-anticipated inventory turnover and strong interest from both new and returning buyers. To date, 65% of the crop has already been pre-ordered.

Looking ahead, van Rensburg noted that once the zero-tariff policy is implemented, demand for South African pecans is expected to rise significantly, creating new opportunities for industry growth, investment and long-term trade partnerships between the two countries.

The harvest season for South African pecans typically runs from May to September. This timing allows the nuts to reach the Chinese market in fresh condition earlier than pecans from other major exporting countries, aligning perfectly with peak demand periods during China’s cultural and shopping festivals, including National Day, the Mid-Autumn Festival, Double 11, Double 12 and Chinese New Year. This season, the South African pecan industry plans to launch targeted social media campaigns around these festivals and holidays to showcase the premium quality of its pecans and further boost sales.

Images: South African Pecan Nut Producers Association