South Australia’s exports hit near-record highs in 2024, driven by the global demand for the state’s top-quality food and wine, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
In 2024, South Australia’s merchandise exports reached $17.09 billion, maintaining a strong performance for the second year in a row. This marks a more than 50% increase compared to pre-COVID export levels. Although slightly below the record $17.76 billion set in 2023, this year’s figure is still one of the best in the state’s history.
Key markets for South Australian exports performed strongly in 2024. Exports to China grew by 33%, reaching $4.39 billion, while exports to the United States rose by 13% to $1.97 billion. Trade with Vietnam also saw a 26% increase, reaching $677.7 million.
Compared to 2019, the year before the pandemic, South Australia’s 2024 exports are up 50%, which is an additional $5.9 billion for the state.
A major factor in this growth has been the lifting of Chinese tariffs on Australian wine and ongoing efforts by the Government to stabilise trade relations. South Australian Trade and Investment Minister Joe Szakacs also led trade missions to key markets like China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea to support local businesses and explore new opportunities.
Several South Australian products saw significant increases in exports in 2024:
- Wine: Up 39% to $1.82 billion
- Meat: Up 56% to $1.29 billion
- Nuts: Up 74% to $432.2 million
- Fruit and vegetables: Up 21% to $197.7 million
- Dairy products and eggs: Up 30% to $171 million
“South Australian businesses have proven to be resilient and innovative,” Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs said. “They are taking opportunities to re-engage as China reopens, while also diversifying into alternative markets to spread their risk and find new buyers for high-quality products.”
The State Government has also made efforts to improve access to international markets. In 2024, direct flights between Adelaide and China, as well as the United Arab Emirates, were reinstated, helping local suppliers of fresh and perishable products reach key markets more easily.
Seafood exports to China grew by a massive 90.1% in 2024, with Southern Rock Lobster exports alone valued at $3.5 million in December after the trade ban was lifted.
To further support the sector, the State Government launched the $475,000 Seafood Export Growth Program. This program helps local seafood exporters attend international trade events and brings key seafood importers to South Australia to experience the state’s world-class offerings.
The South Australian Government also introduced a $1.85 million Wine Exporters China Re-Engagement Support Package, which has facilitated numerous trade activations and marketing campaigns since March 2024.
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