By: Nelson Teixeira - managing director of operations for Sub-Saharan Africa at FedEx

From luxury cosmetics to artisanal foods and advanced manufacturing, the international appetite for quality, sustainably produced goods from Africa is on the rise. With this growing global demand, South African small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are better positioned than ever to expand their reach beyond local borders. 

This is according to Nelson Teixeira, managing director of operations for Sub-Saharan Africa at FedEx, who believes 2026 offers South African SMEs a window of opportunity to scale internationally. These are the five key markets that stand out for Teixeira:

1. United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A gateway to the Gulf and Asia

South Africa is the UAE's second-largest trading partner in Africa, accounting for nearly 8% of the UAE's non-oil trade. With its growing demand for premium food, wine, and beauty products, the UAE offers fertile ground for South African exporters that can meet discerning consumer expectations for quality and provenance.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s free zones allow 100% foreign ownership, duty exemptions, and easy market access into the wider Gulf region. This makes the UAE not just an end market, but a gateway to Asia. The country’s sophisticated logistics infrastructure also makes it an ideal re-export hub.

Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a key global commerce and logistics hub. FedEx recently launched its first dedicated flight and transitioned to a direct-serve presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, becoming the only express logistics company with a nonstop air connection from the United States and Europe to the Kingdom. This expansion not only strengthens international trade links but also opens a strategic gateway for African SMEs. With enhanced connectivity and access to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing economy, businesses across the continent can now expand their reach, tap into new customer bases, and participate more actively in the region’s dynamic import and re-export opportunities.

2. Germany: A sustainable anchor to Europe

Germany remains South Africa’s top export partner in Europe and one of the world’s largest importers of artisanal and sustainable products. With growing consumer preference for ethically sourced and environmentally responsible goods, German buyers are actively seeking producers who can prove traceability and fair-trade practices.

“This growing appetite for artisanal and sustainable brands creates attractive opportunities for South African brands in food, beverage, natural skincare, and fashion,” says Teixeira. “SMEs looking to target Germany should focus on certification, transparent supply chains, and authentic brand storytelling that highlights community impact and environmental care.”

3. India: A vast consumer base with an appetite for quality

With its 1.5 billion population and rapid middle-class expansion, India remains one of the fastest-growing global economies. Furthermore, the growing popularity of online marketplaces in India means even smaller exporters can reach urban consumers without a physical presence. 

South Africa’s exports to India came close to $5 billion. Teixeira notes that the market’s scale and diversity present exciting opportunities for well-prepared businesses.

“India offers immense potential for South African SMEs,” he explains. “Understanding import requirements and regional nuances is essential to understanding how to grow your customer base in the region. Partnering with logistics providers that offer reliable customs support, local warehousing, and e-commerce integration can help businesses succeed in this dynamic market.”

Singapore: A strategic Asian logistics and trade node

Exports from South Africa to Singapore have more than doubled over the past four years, rising from $436.5 million in 2020 to $961.4 million in 2024, while total goods trade between the two countries climbed to $1.4 billion in 2024. 

Singapore’s target value-chains include agri-processing, consumer goods, industrial supply and assembly. This means opportunity for South African businesses to grow beyond raw commodity export into value-added production.

4. Broader Africa: Kenya and Nigeria lead the charge

Teixeira notes that Kenya and Nigeria, in particular, stand out for their fast-growing digital economies, youthful populations, and booming e-commerce sectors.

“Kenya’s thriving fintech ecosystem and Nigeria’s expanding consumer class make them natural entry points for African exporters seeking intra-continental growth,” he says. 

Logistics as the great enabler

The future looks promising. Teixeira says the key to unlocking this international growth potential lies in efficient logistics. Having the right tools such as FedEx Global Trade Manager, which provides important regulatory information specific to international shipments, can further support this journey by helping businesses navigate documentation and compliance with ease, turning complexity into opportunity.

“For local SMEs, there has never been a better time to go global. The demand is there, but success will depend heavily on reliable cross-border delivery, simplified customs processes, and effective digital tracking platforms,” he says.