Western Cape Farmers Celebrate End Of Vegetable Export Ban To Botswana

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, has welcomed Botswanas decision to lift its ban on vegetable imports.

The move is seen as a significant step towards strengthening trade within the Southern African Customs Union SACU and aligning with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA.

Botswana will lift the ban on approximately 16 vegetable varieties, including pumpkin, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and green beans, in two phases.

The phased removal of import restrictions, which began in December 2024, will significantly benefit South African exporters, particularly in the Western Cape, Meyer said.

This move will encourage increased trade among Southern African Customs Union SACU members, who view the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA as a critical tool for developing regional value chains and enhancing exports.