Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) newly elected leadership at its congress in Gqeberha , Eastern Cape
South Africa’s agricultural sector has called for a sharper focus on trade diplomacy, improved market access and infrastructure reform as geopolitical tensions and shifting global trade patterns reshape export opportunities for local producers.
These issues dominated discussions at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) Congress 2026, held in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, where industry leaders, government representatives and agribusiness executives gathered to chart a path for the sector’s future growth.
According to Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo, delegates agreed that South Africa must intensify efforts to maintain and expand access to key export markets while pursuing new opportunities in rapidly growing regions.
“The country must work to maintain and deepen access in these markets, while also expanding access for products that do not yet enjoy preferential or lower-tariff access,” Sihlobo said.
