South Africa: Exporter Guide Annual

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. The commercial agricultural sector in South Africa is highly diversified and is self-sufficient in the production of most primary foods, with the exceptions of wheat, rice, and poultry. Nevertheless, South Africa offers opportunities for U.S. exports, especially for consumer-oriented products and ingredients to supply South Africa’s robust food-processing sector. South African consumers' willingness to try new products and rising demand for imported goods because of changes in health-conscious eating and drinking habits have created opportunities for U.S. exports in specialized food and beverage categories, but American exporters face challenges such as local suppliers, preferential trade agreements with U.S. competitors, and weak local currency exchange rate against the dollar.