Since 2017, South Africa has been experiencing a trade surplus with most trading partners with the exception of Asia (with total trade of exports + imports at ZAR 1.3 trillion) where the dominance of China as a trading partner has led to a trade deficit.

Related tralac Trade Brief: South Africa Trade Update 2021

The bulk of exports to Asia remain resource-based primary products, while value added manufactured products are mostly destined to Africa. With exception of Asia and Oceania, South Africa had a trade surplus with other regions. South Africa’s trade remains concentrated in Southern Africa where it has preferential access to the bulk of markets.