SAPPA Supports Market Access to the United States

As South Africa’s pecan industry continues to grow, the development of alternative export markets remains an important priority. SAPPA has therefore been working to assist South African processors and exporters with information and contacts to support potential market access into the United States.

Through engagement with representatives of the South African government in the United States, including the dtic’s marketing office at the South African Mission in New York and the Agricultural Office at the South African Embassy, SAPPA obtained valuable market information which was shared with local processors.

This included contact information and industry lists for US pecan shellers, processors, handlers and nut importers, including members of the National Pecan Shellers Association, American Pecan Council and Association of Food Industries. The information identified several of the major companies active in the US pecan industry and provided processors with potential contacts through which commercial opportunities could be explored.

Processors were also provided with information on the requirements for exporting pecans from South Africa to the United States. These include FDA facility registration and prior notice requirements, as well as US Customs and Border Protection documentation and agricultural inspection requirements.

Positive tariff development

Recent developments regarding US tariffs also provide some encouragement for the agricultural sector. The general tariff applicable to South Africa has increased from 10% to 12.5%, which remains substantially below the 30% tariff previously faced. While certain agricultural products, including some nuts, have received exemptions, pecan nuts are not currently exempt from the applicable tariff. SAPPA continues to monitor these developments and their implications for potential pecan exports to the US market.

The United States remains an important agricultural market and represents a potential opportunity as the South African pecan industry continues to expand. SAPPA will continue to investigate and support opportunities that can help processors access and develop alternative international markets.