South Africa plans to take advantage of upcoming summit of the BRICS+ group of nations in Russia to secure more markets for its agriculture exports, according to Business Report.

Wandile Silholo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) said the sector is interested in China, India and Saudi Arabia. 

“The products these countries import from the world market align closely with what South Africa exports, which positions us favourably to enhance our trade relations,” the daily cited Sihlobo as saying.

The BRICS+ group of nations was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It recently welcomed Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The bloc will meet at its 16th summit in Kazan, Russia from October 22 to 24. 

South Africa’s agriculture industry views the addition of more members to the grouping as a widening of potential markets for its produce. 

However, Agbiz said the sector wants tariffs to be lowered and phytosanitary issues addressed.

“The aim should be to advocate for reduced import tariffs while collaborating with the Department of Agriculture to navigate phytosanitary challenges for a range of products,” it said, according to Business Report.

South Africa has one of the most advanced agriculture sectors on the continent. Its main exports include grains, wool, fruits, wines, red meat, abalone and oilseeds.