SA cherry farmers expected to benefit from Chinese export deal
The deal is expected to drive investment and create around 600 jobs.
South African cherry farmers are poised to capitalize on the opening of a new market as Chinese officials have signed a protocol to allow the import of local cherries, according to Agriculture Minister Wille Aucamp. The deal, which marks the first time South African cherries will be available in China, is anticipated to stimulate investment and generate approximately 600 new jobs.
China, the world's largest cherry importer, purchased nearly 587,000 tons of cherries worth around R53 billion last year. Farmers are optimistic about the prospects, with Aucamp expressing pride in signing the export protocol alongside his Chinese counterpart. Discussions have also extended to potential collaborations in various sectors between the two nations.
Aucamp emphasized the significance of the agreement, noting it as an unprecedented opportunity for South African farmers to penetrate the Chinese market. He highlighted the trust and mutual benefits between the governments, describing the current phase as a "golden era" for trade between South Africa and China.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
