With the expansion of the BRICS community and growing demand for agricultural products across markets such as China, India and the Middle East, deeper trade relationships could create valuable opportunities for South African farmers and agribusinesses.
But progress remains constrained by tariff and non-tariff barriers, phytosanitary requirements, and the challenges of reaching agreement within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).
As China prepares to take over the BRICS chairship in 2027, the focus turns to translating dialogue into tangible economic gains. We unpack the role of the BRICS Business Council, the agricultural priorities being championed by member countries, and the importance of trade in strengthening food security.
For South Africa, the question is increasingly clear: how can BRICS move beyond geopolitical discussions to deliver meaningful market access and export opportunities for the agricultural sector?
