SFC Correspondent Zheng Qingting, Intern Fan Shuqing in Beijing 

At the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, South African Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen shared his vision for agricultural cooperation within the G20 framework during an interview with SFC. Highlighting sustainable practices and global food security, he emphasized the potential for deepened collaboration with China to boost agricultural productivity through shared technology, particularly in smart agriculture and eco-friendly inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides.

Steenhuisen underscored the need to enhance soil quality and adopt technologies like drones to increase yields while prioritizing environmental sustainability. He called for stronger trade partnerships, urging G20 nations, especially those in the global North, to prioritize fair market access over aid. “Don’t give us aid, give us trade,” he declared, highlighting the value of South Africa’s cost-competitive products, like sugar, for global consumers.

Looking ahead to the G20 Johannesburg Summit, scheduled for November 22–23, 2025, Steenhuisen expressed optimism about advancing discussions on equitable market access and innovative agricultural solutions. He highlighted opportunities for South Africa and China to collaborate on animal health technologies and scientific research to enhance production and tackle global food security challenges.

SFC Markets and Finance: How do you view the current state of agricultural cooperation between South Africa and China, and what specific areas do you see as having the greatest potential for collaboration?

Steenhuisen: I think that we are very grateful as a country that we have access to the Chinese market. It's a large market, but I also think it's a two way beneficial trade because I think that the Chinese consumers are getting access to very well-priced, excellent-quality agricultural products, such as fruits, nuts, wines, and many other products, which are also sought after by Chinese consumers. So I think that deepening and widening opportunities for greater cooperation in the agri space is essential. We're currently in the process of finalizing a stone fruit protocol. We hope to soon have our wonderful apricots and plums and other stone fruit here in China. This is a testament to the growing agricultural relationship between our two countries.

SFC Markets and Finance: What role can Chinese investment and technology play in enhancing South Africa’s agricultural productivity, particularly in addressing challenges like food security and climate resilience?

Steenhuisen:  There are numerous opportunities, particularly in shared technology. We already have protocols in place with China’s agricultural department, enabling our students to study at Chinese universities and agricultural colleges to learn about new technologies, including smart agriculture. As environmental concerns grow, China’s advancements in electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as commercialized equipment for smart agriculture, offer immense potential. Technologies such as drones and soil management systems can significantly improve yields and product quality, especially for our smaller-scale producers who face yield challenges. Knowledge exchange between our two countries can enhance yield and quality, contributing to food security and creating surpluses for trade.

SFC Markets and Finance: How do you assess the impact of trade agreements and partnerships between China and South Africa on the agricultural sector, and what new initiatives are being considered to deepen these ties?

Steenhuisen:  The opportunities to expand trade are substantial. For instance, after signing the avocado protocol, we exported one container in the first year and have now tripled that volume in just one year, reflecting strong demand. We aim to broaden the range of products exported to China. Additionally, China can leverage South Africa—the most industrialized and largest economy in Africa—as a manufacturing base to access the growing African market. This partnership enables China to tap into a dynamic and expanding market, much like its own, in the years ahead.

SFC Markets and Finance: Within the G20 framework, how can South Africa and China collaborate to promote sustainable agricultural practices and address global food security issues?

Steenhuisen:  There are several key areas for collaboration. As mentioned, leveraging technology and smart agriculture can improve yields. We can also work together to develop environmentally friendly inputs, such as fertilizers and pesticides, that cause less harm. Another priority is soil quality management, where China’s expertise in soil technology can be shared to protect this critical resource. By cooperating in these areas, we can sustain agriculture in an environmentally friendly way without compromising yield or quality. Additionally, sharing expertise in animal health, particularly for pork and beef production, and advancing scientific research on insect control and veterinary medicine, will benefit both nations and enhance production and animal health.

SFC Markets and Finance: In the context of G20 discussions, what are South Africa’s priorities for global agricultural policy, and what are your expectations for this year’s G20 summit?

Steenhuisen: Our priority is to bring agricultural stakeholders together to ensure fair market access globally. Our message to major trading partners, particularly in the Global North, is clear: don't give us aid, give us trade. We want fair access to your markets to supply high-quality agricultural products. Consumers in these markets benefit from competitive prices due to currency fluctuations. It's hugely advantageous. For example, producing sugar in South Africa is far more cost-effective than in many heavily subsidized economies. Let’s focus on trade, not aid, to drive mutual economic benefits.

Chief Producer: Zhao Haijian

Supervising Producer: Shi Shi

Editor: Li Yinong

Reporter: Zheng Qingting, Intern Fan Shuqing

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