South Africa and Kenya present numerous opportunities, which include the region’s digital economy, green economy, natural resources, consumption potential and improving value chains. Their large, young, and growing urban population will supplement the region’s labor force and will help it capitalize on its large demographic dividend.
USDA’s Office of Agricultural Affairs in Pretoria states that South Africa is an important market for agricultural products from the United States. The country is a favorable site for enterprises due to its developing market, which facilitates the effective transportation of both imported and domestically produced agricultural products to major urban centers and the greater Southern Africa region.
The South African food ingredients market is valued at approximately $2 billion. South Africa has an advanced food processing sector with more than 1,800 firms, which drives strong demand for food ingredients, an estimated 90% of which must be imported. The U.S. is already a reputable exporter of food ingredients to South Africa, and diverse opportunities exist to expand U.S. food ingredient exports in a wide range of categories.
USDA’s Office of Agricultural Affairs in Nairobi reports that Kenya is East Africa’s economic powerhouse with a strong financial sector and a relatively well-developed logistics network, making it a regional hub. Kenya’s fast-growing population and middle class, combined with an expanding foodservice and retail sector, offer many opportunities for U.S. exporters.
US suppliers of food ingredients may find opportunities in Kenya’s food processing sector. Local ingredient production does not always meet the processing industry’s demand. Kenya has an expanding modern food retail, foodservice and food processing sectors.
Kenya’s feed ingredients market is currently estimated at $530 million, with a potential to grow by 30 percent by 2027 due to an expanding feed industry
South African animal feed (including pet food) imports grew by more than 70 percent over the past 10 years, averaging at about 440,000 MT per year. South Africa Animal Feed Additive market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.7% thru 2031, with a market size of USD 142.65 million in 2024. Animal Feed Additive sales flourish in South Africa due to increasing demand for animal protein, driven by population growth and rising incomes.
U.S. Food & Agricultural Product Imports to South Africa, By the Numbers
U.S. Food & Agricultural Product Imports to Kenya, By the Numbers
Top U.S. products in demand:
Saturday, August 2, 2025: Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa
Sunday, August 3, 2025: Introductions & Store Tour
Monday, August 4, 2025: Orientation Seminar & One-on-One Meetings
Tuesday, August 5, 2025: One-on-One Meetings
Wednesday, August 6, 2025: Travel to Nairobi, Kenya
Thursday, August 7, 2025: Orientation Seminar & One-on-One Meetings
Friday, August 8, 2025: One-on-One Meetings & Store Tour
Saturday, August 9, 2025: Travel Home
Due to the nature of the global pandemic and its impact on international travel, please consider resources such a www.travel.state.gov when determining if this event is appropriate for you or your company.
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