South African agro-processors target global buyers at Anuga 2025
Thirty local companies showcase products at the world’s biggest food and beverage trade fair in Germany
SOUTH AFRICA – South African agro-processing companies are showcasing their products at the Anuga International Trade Fair in Cologne, Germany, from 4 to 8 October 2025.
The exhibition is regarded as the largest and most influential food and beverage trade fair in the world.
Thirty companies from six provinces are presenting their goods to international buyers under the theme “Sustainable Growth.” The event stresses the need to grow economies while protecting the environment.
Anuga takes place every two years and attracts the global food industry. In 2023, it hosted more than 7 900 exhibitors from 118 countries and welcomed over 140 000 visitors from 200 nations. This scale highlights the influence the event holds for exporters.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) has made South Africa’s participation possible through its Export and Marketing and Investment Assistance Scheme. The programme helps local firms access new markets and expand their reach.
Zuko Godlimpi, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, said the initiative fits into the country’s broader export market diversification plan.
“This is part of the South African government’s contribution to export-led industrialisation aimed at driving economic growth. Our efforts are focused on increasing the country’s capacity to export diversified, value-added goods and services to global markets,” said Godlimpi.
He explained that supporting South African businesses to take part in Anuga strengthens the agro-processing industry’s ability to reach buyers in Europe and other regions.
“Anuga presents South African companies with a unique opportunity to position themselves as reliable suppliers of packaged and processed food products. It provides a powerful platform to showcase proudly South African products, create global awareness, and strengthen our market presence in Europe and beyond,” he said.
Building trade links beyond traditional markets
Godlimpi added that the initiative also helps reduce reliance on traditional partners such as the United States. By connecting firms with buyers across Europe, Asia and the Middle East, the programme aims to grow exports and ease challenges like tariffs and market entry barriers.
For the agro-processing industry, access to global markets supports growth, creates jobs, and encourages sustainable business practices. The trade fair also offers companies direct contact with distributors, wholesalers, and retailers who influence supply chains worldwide.
South Africa’s participation at Anuga reflects the government’s wider plan to expand trade opportunities. According to the dtic, these efforts build on other recent measures designed to improve support for local businesses and strengthen export potential.
By joining global events such as Anuga, South African companies hope to prove themselves as consistent suppliers while growing their presence in international markets.
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