Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, has overseen the signing of a landmark agricultural cooperation agreement with Vietnam, marking a significant milestone in South Africa’s agricultural export expansion strategy.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between South Africa and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was signed on 21 November 2025 by Deputy Minister Rosemary Nokuzola Capa and Vietnam’s Deputy Minister Nguyen Hoang Hiep.

“At its heart, this partnership is built on trust and a shared ambition to strengthen sustainable agricultural systems that deliver economic growth and deepen the warm ties between our countries,” said Minister Steenhuisen.

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Expanding Agricultural Cooperation

The agreement focuses on expanding cooperation across multiple agricultural sectors, including crop production and plant protection, animal husbandry and veterinary services, research and development, technology transfer, and agricultural trade.

Minister Steenhuisen emphasised the strategic importance of this partnership for South African agriculture. “This agreement strengthens our strategic presence in Asia and supports our mission to broaden market access for South African producers,” he stated.

Building on Citrus Success

The MoU builds on the remarkable success of South African agricultural exports to Vietnam, particularly in the citrus sector. Orange exports to Vietnam increased fourfold between 2024 and 2025, rising from 53 311 to 209 569 cartons.

“We are building on real results. Our high-quality oranges have found a loyal and growing audience in Vietnam, where consumers recognise the value of South African produce,” Minister Steenhuisen noted.

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Unlocking Market Potential

The agreement comes as part of South Africa’s broader strategy to tap into Vietnam’s substantial agricultural import market, valued at over USD 30 billion annually. The partnership aims to unlock hundreds of millions of dollars in new agricultural export revenue for South Africa.

Beyond citrus, South Africa already exports maize, apples, pears and grapes to Vietnam. The new agreement opens doors for expanding these existing trade volumes while creating opportunities for new products, including high-value niche items like mandarins and game meat.

Strengthening Export Position

Minister Steenhuisen expressed confidence in the growth trajectory of South African exports to Vietnam. “This growth is a powerful vote of confidence in our exports. It reinforces South Africa’s position as the world’s second-largest citrus exporter and highlights the strong appetite in Asia that our farmers are ready to serve,” he said.

Economic Impact and Future Outlook

The agricultural cooperation agreement is expected to contribute significantly to economic growth, rural job creation, increased incomes and more resilient local economies across South Africa. Vietnam’s position as a strategically located and fast-growing economy in Southeast Asia makes it an ideal partner for expanding South Africa’s agricultural export reach.

The MoU signing follows Minister Steenhuisen’s visit to Vietnam in October 2025, which was part of President Ramaphosa’s state visit, and represents the culmination of a three-week negotiation period that concluded with this historic agricultural partnership.