Business
South Africa-Mozambique Trade Resilient Amid Political Challenges, With Strong Agricultural Ties

Despite political unrest in Mozambique, South Africa’s economic relationship with its neighbouring country remains strong, especially in the agricultural sector. While concerns over trade disruptions arose following post-election violence, experts believe that trade between South Africa and Mozambique will continue to thrive in the foreseeable future.
Mozambique plays a crucial role as South Africa’s third-largest agricultural export market in Africa, accounting for 14% of the market in 2023, valued at R12.8 billion. Ranked just after Botswana and Namibia, Mozambique’s significance in South Africa’s agricultural exports cannot be overstated. Additionally, Mozambique ranked sixth globally in terms of South Africa’s agricultural exports, contributing 5% of the $13.2 billion total in 2023.
Trade Resilience Amid Challenges
While there have been minor declines in trade performance compared to 2023, the situation remains manageable. A report comparing trade between August-November 2023 and 2024 shows an 8.2% drop in agricultural exports to Mozambique in 2024, while the previous year saw a rise of 9.5%. Specifically, products like non-alcoholic beverages, maize meal, nuts, and oil cake saw growth during the same period in 2023.
Despite political turbulence, the flow of goods, particularly citrus fruits, has remained relatively smooth, ensuring that South Africa can continue exporting vital agricultural produce. Mozambique’s port infrastructure is also being improved with investments, further enhancing trade prospects. By the end of 2025 or early 2026, the condition of these ports should see significant improvements, making them even more efficient for South African exports.
The Role of Mozambique in South Africa’s Agricultural Sector
Mozambique’s ports are vital to the export of citrus and other agricultural goods from South Africa, especially with inefficiencies at other ports. With 2023 citrus exports valued at $1.8 billion, the role of Mozambique in moving South African agricultural products is significant. As of January 2025, trade has been largely unaffected by the ongoing violence, but continuous monitoring remains necessary to safeguard future operations.
While political instability in Mozambique poses risks not just for trade but also for regional security, it is unlikely to disrupt the robust economic ties between the two nations in the short term. However, the humanitarian situation in Mozambique, with thousands of refugees fleeing to neighbouring countries, must be closely monitored.
The Future of South Africa-Mozambique Trade
South Africa’s agricultural exports to Mozambique will continue to be an essential part of the economic relationship between the two countries. However, political instability in Mozambique could have far-reaching consequences for Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations. To mitigate these risks, South Africa will need to focus on diversifying export routes and closely monitor developments within Mozambique.
Despite the challenges, the trade relationship remains resilient, and there is optimism for continued growth as both countries invest in improving infrastructure and resolving political challenges.
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