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Import permits for genetically engineered (GE) corn from the United States are once again issued by South Africa. After a mid-summer drought that caused a 22 percent drop in production, South Africa needs to import corn to supplement domestic production.

This document provides an overview of major Mexican agricultural and food-product laws and regulations, as well as related import standards and regulations.

The competent Mexican authorities which regulate food and agricultural imports and/or require official U.S. export certificates include the Secretariat of Agriculture (SADER), Secretariat of Health (SALUD), Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), and the Secretariat of the Treasury and Public Credit (HACIENDA) No significant changes occurred vis-à-vis Mexican import standards and regulations in 2023.

The South African Department of Agriculture is in the process of finalizing requirements related to “control management systems,” which may include additional requirements of documentation to support label claims for imported food products.

On July 19, 2024, the South African government published a new sugar import tariff of R1,093 per metric ton (US$60.09/MT). This tariff change was triggered by a downward trend in global sugar prices and will apply to sugar imported into the Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU).

In July 2024, falling global wheat prices triggered a wheat import duty of Rand 176.30 (USD 9.70) per metric ton for South Africa ending more than three years of duty-free imports. The higher import duty was introduced amid a 7 percent drop in wheat planted area for marketing year 2024/25.

This report has been updated to reflect the newest information and contacts relevant to exporting to South Africa. The Food and Agricultural Import Regulation and Standards (FAIRS) Certificate Report includes a list of the main certificates and permits needed to export food and agricultural products to South Africa.

The FAIRS Annual Country Report has been updated and summarizes the rules and regulations governing the import of food and agricultural products in South Africa. This report should be read in conjunction with the FAIRS Export Certificate Report to gain a thorough grasp of South African laws, standards, and import requirements.

South Africa is one of the most advanced and varied economies in Africa, boasting a strong business sector and advanced distribution networks to major urban centers in the country and throughout the entire Southern African region.

Mexico was the second largest export market for U.S. agricultural products in 2023, with total U.S. exports valued at $28.6 billion. Mexico’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 3.2 percent in 2023, making its economy the 12th largest globally.

On May 21, 2024, the Government of Mexico published a modification to the Federal Law of Animal Health. The update strengthens the penalties for non-compliance with the law and lists substances banned for use in livestock intended for human consumption.

Previously exporters and importers of live animals and genetic materials only required a permit, but a new directive requires prior authorization from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development’s Animal Production Directorate before applying for the permit.