Oils & Fats - South Africa

South Africa

Highlights

Revenue in the Oils & Fats market amounts to US$447.90m in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 7.22% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated India (US$46bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$7.34 are generated in 2024.
In the Oils & Fats market, volume is expected to amount to 97.08m kg by 2029. The Oils & Fats market is expected to show a volume growth of 2.8% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Oils & Fats market is expected to amount to 1.4kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureReportsMethodology

The Oils & Fats Market within The Food market in South Africa is experiencing minimal growth, influenced by factors such as shifting consumer preferences, health-conscious trends, and competition from alternative spreads and oils, which challenge traditional products.

Customer preferences: Consumers in South Africa are increasingly gravitating towards healthier oils and fats, prioritizing options with perceived health benefits such as olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil. This shift is influenced by a growing awareness of nutrition and the impact of dietary fats on health. Additionally, the rise in plant-based diets among younger demographics is leading to a decline in traditional animal fats. Cultural influences are also significant, with traditional cooking practices adapting to incorporate healthier alternatives, reflecting a blend of modern health trends and local cuisine.

Trends in the market: In South Africa, the Oils & Fats market is experiencing a notable shift towards healthier alternatives, with consumers increasingly favoring oils like olive, avocado, and coconut over traditional animal fats. This trend is driven by heightened awareness of nutrition and its effects on health, particularly among younger demographics embracing plant-based diets. Additionally, cultural influences are reshaping traditional cooking methods, integrating these healthier oils. This evolution presents significant implications for industry stakeholders, encouraging innovation in product offerings and marketing strategies to align with consumer preferences for health-conscious choices.

Local special circumstances: In South Africa, the Oils & Fats market is uniquely influenced by its diverse cultural landscape and agricultural conditions. The prevalence of local ingredients, such as marula and baobab, encourages the exploration of indigenous oils alongside global trends. Additionally, regulatory frameworks promoting health and nutrition are steering consumers towards healthier fat options. The country's emphasis on food security and sustainability also shapes market dynamics, fostering innovation in locally sourced oils that cater to both traditional and modern culinary practices, ultimately aligning with evolving consumer preferences.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Oils & Fats market in South Africa is significantly shaped by macroeconomic factors such as agricultural productivity, trade policies, and consumer spending patterns. Fluctuations in global oil prices, driven by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, directly impact local pricing and availability of oils. Furthermore, national economic health, characterized by GDP growth and inflation rates, influences consumer purchasing power, steering demand towards affordable yet nutritious options. Fiscal policies promoting sustainable agriculture and local sourcing also encourage innovation, while rising health awareness among consumers drives the shift towards healthier fat alternatives, aligning with global wellness trends.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.