South Africa's rooibos exports surpassed 10,000 tonnes in 2025, marking an all-time high and expanding to over 50 markets worldwide. However, production fell to 15,000 tonnes last year due to climate challenges in the Cederberg region. Industry leaders emphasize quality and adaptation strategies to sustain growth.
Rooibos, a herbal tea unique to South Africa's Cederberg region in the Western Cape, achieved a milestone in 2025 with exports exceeding 10,000 tonnes for the first time. According to the South African Rooibos Council, shipments reached 10,930 tonnes, up from 5,900 tonnes in 2015, reaching more than 50 international markets. Japan remains the largest buyer, while emerging markets like Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and China show growing interest.
Despite this export success, production declined from 17,000 tonnes in 2023 to 15,000 tonnes in 2025, amid hotter and drier conditions in the growing area. The crop's single-origin status—legally a tisane but often categorized with teas—ties it closely to local communities and limits cultivation elsewhere to maintain quality and flavor.
Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, noted the broader agricultural export boom: “The SA agricultural sector... exported in 2025 a record $15.1-billion,” a 10% increase from 2024, with half of production value now exported. He added that rooibos's distinct profile means supply constraints do not easily drive buyers to alternatives, though consistency is essential.
Dawie de Villiers, chairperson of the South African Rooibos Council, highlighted: “Rooibos is not a volume-driven commodity. Its long-term value lies in quality, origin integrity and responsible stewardship.” The industry manages demand through stockpiling during oversupply periods and relies on the crop's resilience, which requires minimal moisture. Ongoing research and farmer experiments aim to mitigate climate impacts.
At Klipopmekaar farm, one of the largest organic rooibos producers, managing director Richard Bowsher focuses on soil health via regenerative practices. The farm, co-founder of BOS Brands, is carbon net-negative, having sequestered enough carbon to offset emissions for 80 years. Bowsher explained: “Our focus... has been soil health, increasing organic matter and carbon in our soils to improve soil water retention.” This approach appeals to clients, especially in Europe.