Exports for South Australia have continued their near-record high levels, topping $17 billion for the second calendar year running, a 50 per cent increase on pre-COVID levels.
South Australia’s exports were valued at $17.09 billion in 2024 which was just below the state’s all-time record of $17.76 billion, set in 2023. Compared to pre-COVID levels recorded in 2019, exports in 2024 delivered an extra $5.9 billion return to South Australia.
Exports to the state’s largest two-way trading partner, China, continued to grow in 2024, up 33 per cent to $4.39 billion, with the United States increasing 13 per cent to $1.97 billion.
The removal of tariffs by China on Australian wine and continued stabilisation of the trading relationship, continues to yield strong results for South Australian exports.
In 2024, South Australian products to experience significant export increases included:
- Wine (up 39 per cent to $1.82 billion)
- Meat (up 56 per cent to $1.29 billion)
- Nuts (up 74 per cent to $432.2 million)
- Fruit and vegetables (up 21 per cent to $197.7 million)
- Dairy products and eggs (up 30 per cent to $171 million)
The increases reinforce the state’s reputation for premium produce which is renowned globally for its high quality.
Also supporting export growth is the re-establishment of direct flights from Adelaide to China and the United Arab Emirates, which are increasing access to major markets for local suppliers of fresh and perishable products.
Seafood exports to China grew 90.1 per cent in 2024, with Southern Rock Lobster exports in December alone valued at $3.5 million following the removal of restrictions by China on 20 December.
Last year, the South Australian Government introduced the Seafood Export Growth Program which supports local seafood exporters to attend major international trade events, and attracts key seafood importers in South Australia to experience the world-class fisheries and premium offerings.
The South Australian Government’s $1.85 million Wine Exporters China Re-engagement Support Package has executed 11 trade activations and market visits along with seven targeted marketing campaigns since March 2024.
