Steenhuisen seeks to strengthen Agricultural ties with Ukraine during Zelensky’s South Africa visit
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen is looking to capitalize on the ongoing visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to South Africa, which began today, April 24, 2025.
The visit, hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa, provides a crucial opportunity to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, agriculture, and education.
With a particular focus on agriculture, experts suggest that South Africa could increase wheat imports from Ukraine, leveraging the country’s competitive pricing and high-quality produce. Additionally, there are opportunities for South Africa to boost its agricultural exports, including citrus, wine, and other products, to Ukraine, which annually spends $5.5 billion on agricultural imports.
This strategic push is seen as vital for South Africa, especially as the country looks to diversify its markets in response to U.S. tariffs and the anticipated expiration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in September 2025. However, any potential trade agreements will depend on the private sector’s involvement and the post-conflict stability of Ukraine.
Steenhuisen’s efforts align with South Africa’s broader goal of strengthening international trade ties amid shifting global dynamics.