June 2025 — Nelspruit, South Africa
His Excellency, Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Wu Peng and his esteemed delegation visited Nelspruit, Mpumalanga in June this year. The visit is part of ongoing efforts to deepen trade relations and cooperation in the macadamia sector between South Africa and China. Currently, South Africa has a 12% tariff barrier on macadamia imports from South Africa.
The engagement featured an industry presentation offering an overview of South Africa’s macadamia production, export performance, and global positioning. Key discussion points included current crop statistics, the country’s international quality benchmarks, and growing export volumes to China.
Farm to Factory
The Ambassador was taken on a guided tour of a local farm, where they were able to observe orchard management, engage about cultivation practices, and employment impact in rural areas. The Ambassador was impressed with the innovation and attention to sustainability exhibited on the farm. This was followed by a visit to a local processing facility. The tour provided the delegation with direct insight into South Africa’s world-class processing standards, traceability systems, and product innovation.
Deepening Trade Alliances
Ambassador Wu Peng expressed appreciation for the transparency, collaboration, and warm hospitality shown by all stakeholders during the visit. He noted the importance of strengthening trade ties between China and South Africa in high-value agricultural commodities like macadamia and acknowledged the significant opportunity for mutual growth.
The visit concluded with a renewed sense of partnership, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to fostering sustainable trade, investment, and market access between the two nations.
SAMAC thanks all participating growers and processors for their contributions in making this high-level engagement a success.
