SOUTH Australia’s merchandise exports have topped $17 billion for the second calendar year running.

The latest ABS full-year export data for 2024 marked an increase of more than 50% on pre-covid levels.

Valued at $17.09 billion, last year’s figure is second only to South Australia’s all-time record of $17.76 billion, set in 2023.

Exports to South Australia’s two largest trading partners grew in 2024, as China surged 33% to $4.39 billion, and the United States increased 13% to $1.97 billion. Trade to Vietnam also increased 26% to $677.7 million.

The SA government said the strong results coincided with the removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian wine and federal government engagement to stabilise the trading relationship.

The SA products which experienced the most significant export increases last year were:

  • 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)

Despite the strong trade figures, SA trade minister Joe Szakacs said a range of international factors are making the trading environment more complex for exporters.

“The latest data shows that South Australia has been able to buck the trend, grow our exports to record levels, and maintain that success despite the noise and distraction,” he said.

“South Australian businesses have proven to be resilient and innovative. 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.

“Our government has now strategically placed trade offices throughout the world to support hard working South Australians to connect with the global market and grow their businesses. I will continue working closely with local exporters, and the more than 100,000 local workers that they employ, to navigate these complex times.”

Minister Szakacs also led trade missions to China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Japan and Korea last year to support local businesses as they re-engaged with overseas markets and explored emerging opportunities.

The state government also secured the reinstatement of direct flights from Adelaide to China and the UAE, which is increasing access to major markets for local suppliers of fresh and perishable products.

And seafood exports to China grew 90.1% in 2024, with Southern Rock Lobster exports in December alone valued at $3.5 million, after the trade ban was lifted on 20 December.