South Africa and Italy have signed a new cooperation framework aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in the agricultural sector, as both countries seek to expand trade, promote innovation and support sustainable agricultural development.

The agreement was signed during the inaugural South Africa–Italy Agricultural Business Forum held in Cape Town, bringing together government officials, business leaders and agricultural stakeholders from both nations.

Under the framework, South Africa and Italy will deepen collaboration in areas including agricultural technology, agro-processing, research and innovation, biosecurity, market access and investment promotion. The partnership is also expected to facilitate knowledge sharing and technology transfer to improve productivity and competitiveness across key agricultural value chains.

South African officials described the agreement as an important step in the country’s efforts to modernize its agricultural sector and enhance its position in global markets. Italy, known for its expertise in agricultural mechanization, food processing and agri-tech innovation, is expected to play a key role in supporting these ambitions.

Beyond boosting production and trade, the two countries emphasized the importance of strengthening food security, encouraging private-sector investment and fostering sustainable development in rural communities.

The agreement reflects a broader trend of growing international cooperation in agriculture, as countries seek to address challenges ranging from climate change and food security to supply chain resilience and rural economic development.

Officials from both nations expressed confidence that the partnership would create new opportunities for businesses, farmers and investors while contributing to the long-term transformation of agricultural systems in South Africa and across the African continent.