The Tastin’ France professional tasting will be held on 13th June at the Saxon hotel in Johannesburg. Business France will accompany a delegation of seven (7) French Wine Producers and one (1) Curator. Through business meetings and professional networking opportunities, the participants will represent the wine and spirits expertise of France.
South Africa is widely recognised as one of the continent’s largest and most diversified economies. It serves as a gateway for trade and investment into Sub-Saharan Africa due to its developed infrastructure, financial markets, and regional trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Growth prospects in Africa remain promising overall, with South Africa playing a pivotal role in regional economic integration and development. Several opportunities are available for exports of French wines to South Africa. According to the Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), this sector is not just a major contributor to the country’s GDP; it is a cornerstone of economic growth, fuelled by evolving consumer habits, urbanisation, and a rising population. In recent years, the beverage industry has outpaced the broader consumer packaged goods sector. Investments by global giants underscore this potential. Heineken’s ZAR 13.6 billion (approximately USD 900 million) direct investment, and Varun Beverages Limited (VBL)’s ZAR 3 billion (approximately USD 180-200 million). acquisition of BevCo, the Pepsi bottler in South Africa, highlight confidence in the market.
Innovation at the heart of the French Pavilion
French exhibitors will highlight a variety of products for wine / spirits professionals:
- Expertise: The delegation will showcase French expertise in sustainable production and management.
- Strategic Partnerships: Business France facilitates the creation of partnerships between French companies and local actors, thus promoting commercial and technological exchanges.
- Innovation and R&D: French companies are recognised for their innovations in biotechnology, crop protection, and the development of new crop varieties.
Quality French products
With regular engagement in economic cooperation and development programmes in South Africa, France is one of the leading exporters to the country. Last year, Trading Economics confirmed that South Africa imported over ZAR 3.2 billion (approximately USD 164 million) worth of beverages, spirits, and vinegar, placing the industry among the top import categories for the country. Notably, France accounted for the largest share of South Africa’s hard liquor imports, valued at approximately ZAR 2.22 billion (around USD 99 million), surpassing other key origins such as the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Recognised and appreciated for the quality of its products, France is increasingly developing in the South African market. France leads European agriculture with a 2023 production estimated at EUR 95.8 billion (approximately ZAR 1.99 trillion), representing 18% of the European Union’s production value. With more than 500 companies active in this sector, the diversity, quality, and expertise of the French offer represent an undeniable asset for developing and sustaining agricultural operations. France is also a major player in the agricultural inputs sub-sector.
Media contact in France:
Siham MORCHID – Paris
siham.morchid@businessfrance.fr
Media contact in Sub-Saharan Africa:
Nicolas COCHE, in charge of communication and business development in Sub-Saharan Africa
nicolas.coche@businessfrance.fr
