Cherries in baskets. Creative Touch Imaging Ltd/NurPhoto via AFP
JOHANNESBURG - It's a cherry-on-top moment for South African farmers.
Local producers have won access to China's lucrative market.
South African cherries are set to enter the country for the first time after Agriculture Minister Wille Aucamp signed an agreement in Beijing.
China is the world's largest cherry importer, bringing in more than $3.3-billion worth last year.
Government says the agreement will create new export opportunities, boost investment in the sector and support around 600 jobs.
The deal is part of broader efforts to deepen agricultural trade with China, with market access talks for South African blueberries also at an advanced stage.