Introduction – Current State of Play: The Edible Oils Sector in South Africa
South Africa’s edible oils market is heating up, and not just in the frying pan. 2025 has brought with it a storm of changes—some good, some challenging—for manufacturers, distributors, and food businesses across the region.
From bumper oilseed harvests to ambitious cold-chain infrastructure expansions and a strong pivot towards sustainable sourcing, the edible oils sector is undergoing a rapid transformation. Add to that global price fluctuations, new trade agreements, and growing demand for premium oils, and it’s clear: South African companies must stay sharp and adaptable.
Whether you’re a food processor, HORECA buyer, retailer, or exporter, now’s the time to understand what’s happening beneath the surface of your cooking oil bottle.
Let’s break it all down.
Deep Dive – Market Movers: Recent Developments and Consequences
Explosive Growth in Oilseed Production
Hold onto your frying pans—South Africa’s oilseed industry is booming.
In the 2024–2025 season, oilseed production is forecasted to hit 3.36 million tonnes—up a whopping 27% from the previous year. Soybeans are leading the charge with a 32% jump to 2.4 million tonnes, while sunflower seeds are up 19% to 700,000 tonnes. That’s no small feat considering recent drought conditions. (Source)
Edible Oil Market Expansion
The edible oil market was valued at around USD 680 million in 2024 and is set to grow steadily to USD 770 million by 2030. Sunflower oil continues to dominate with a 40% market share, but rising costs and consumer shifts are pushing soybean and canola oil to the forefront. (Source)
Olive Oil Rising as a Premium Choice
Olive oil is having a moment too. It soared to USD 105.70 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a healthy 5.66% CAGR—reaching USD 183.31 million by 2033. It’s not just for salads anymore; olive oil is finding its way into cosmetics and luxury skincare products. (Source)
Supply Chain Upgrades: Cold Chain Boom
With the cold chain market expected to hit USD 20.6 billion by 2030 (up from USD 6.3 billion in 2023), the logistics sector is undergoing a major revamp. A recent USD 10 million warehouse project covering 25,500 square meters illustrates how serious South Africa is about becoming a cold chain hub for the continent. (Source)
Domestic Refining Capacity Expands
Wilmar Processing recently launched a USD 68 million refining plant in Richards Bay. With four massive 40,000-ton tanks, this facility is set to refine and package palm oil and other edible oils, while sourcing 20% of its raw materials locally—cutting costs and boosting self-reliance. (Source)
Used Cooking Oil: Sustainability Meets Profitability
The used cooking oil market, valued at USD 277.48 million in 2024, is forecasted to double by 2035. With a 6.4% CAGR, it’s becoming a hot commodity for biodiesel production—thanks to growing environmental awareness and government incentives. (Source)
Palm Oil: Ethical Sourcing on the Rise
Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a necessity. South African palm oil suppliers are now pursuing RSPO certification to align with global consumer demand for responsibly sourced products. (Source)
Top 5 Verified Edible Oils Suppliers in South Africa – Adapting to Today’s Market
In a market this dynamic, choosing the right supplier is half the battle. The following suppliers have been vetted for their export strength, certifications, Freshdi reviews, and adaptability to current market shifts:
1. Chezlynne Trading (Pty) Ltd
Known for their high-quality groundnut oil, Chezlynne Trading has built a solid reputation across Africa and beyond. Their offerings are well-reviewed by global buyers on Freshdi, particularly for product consistency and responsiveness.
2. DOTERRA SA PTY LTD
This supplier is making strides in the premium oils space, including essential blends that double for culinary and cosmetic use. Their certifications and product traceability give them an edge.
3. Balingi Trading Company (PTY) Ltd
Balingi has diversified into edible oils from a strong agribusiness foundation. They’re praised for competitive pricing and reliable shipping—key in today’s shifting logistics landscape.
4. FLM SA PTY LTD T/A DFFA Cape Town
Located strategically in Cape Town, FLM SA benefits from port proximity and streamlined export logistics. Their sunflower and soybean oils are in high demand.
5. EMPIRESTATE TRADING PTY LTD
A frequent “Supplier of the Month” on Freshdi, they’re known for their reliability, bulk packaging options, and adaptability to custom RFQs.
Dynamic Ranking Note
Supplier performance can shift quickly based on market conditions, order volumes, and buyer feedback. Platforms like Freshdi offer real-time “Top Supplier” badges and monthly leaderboards to help buyers make smart, current decisions.
Market Navigation – Strategic Responses to The Prevailing Edible Oils Landscape in South Africa
So, what does all this mean for your sourcing strategy?
Opportunities Abound, But So Do Risks
The surge in local oilseed production opens up better pricing and local supply options for soybean and sunflower oil—especially for buyers looking to reduce import dependency. However, price volatility in sunflower oil and variability in rainfall patterns could still disrupt supply.
Cold Chain = Fresh Advantage
With cold chain investments booming, now is the time to consider importing temperature-sensitive oils like olive and specialty blends. Improved storage and transit conditions mean longer shelf life and better quality control.
Palm Oil Buyers: Go Sustainable or Go Home
If you’re sourcing palm oil, make sure your supplier is RSPO-certified. Ethical sourcing is no longer optional—it’s a brand risk if you ignore it.
Used Cooking Oil: Green Gold for Biofuel Buyers
For industries interested in sustainability or biofuels, the used cooking oil market is ripe for investment. This is especially relevant for manufacturers, transport companies, or even municipalities looking to green their operations.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways for Businesses in a Fast-Moving Market
Let’s recap:
- Oilseed production is booming—especially soybeans and sunflower.
- Edible oil demand is rising, but so is the need for price agility.
- Infrastructure is improving, especially for cold storage and refining.
- Sustainability is non-negotiable, particularly in palm and used cooking oils.
- Supplier selection matters more than ever—and platforms like Freshdi give you the tools to make informed, timely decisions.
Checklist for Buyers in 2025
✅ Monitor price trends for sunflower and soybean oils
✅ Prioritize suppliers investing in sustainability certifications
✅ Use platforms like Freshdi to view real-time supplier ratings
✅ Consider local sourcing to reduce dependency on imports
✅ Track RFQ trends to anticipate market shifts early
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers
Freshdi isn’t just a sourcing platform—it’s your go-to for:
- Real-time supplier rankings
- Verified certifications
- RFQ trends tied to market developments
- Direct access to top-tier South African suppliers
- Notifications on major product or market changes
As the edible oils market continues to evolve, Freshdi ensures you’re never left behind.
FAQs
1. What is the fastest-growing edible oil in South Africa?
Soybean oil is currently growing the fastest in terms of production, thanks to a projected 32% increase in 2024–2025.
2. Why is RSPO certification important for palm oil suppliers?
It ensures that palm oil is sourced sustainably, which is critical for meeting global environmental standards and consumer expectations.
3. How can Freshdi help me choose the right supplier?
Freshdi offers verified supplier profiles, buyer reviews, real-time rankings, and RFQ data to help you make smarter sourcing decisions.
4. Is used cooking oil a good investment in South Africa?
Yes. With its use in biodiesel and growing sustainability initiatives, it’s a promising area for investment and sourcing.
5. What should I watch out for when sourcing sunflower oil?
Watch for price volatility—caused by weather or global demand—and consider diversifying into soybean or canola when prices spike.
References
- World Grain – South Africa’s Oilseeds Outlook
- Vyanza Intelligence – Edible Oil Market Report
- IMARC Group – South Africa Olive Oil Market
- Cold Chain SA – Infrastructure Trends
- IMARC Group – Palm Oil Market
- Market Research Future – Used Cooking Oil Report
- Freshdi – B2B Supplier Platform
