[image:aspistrategist]

Modern South Africa is a forward-thinking place that not only takes great pride in its own culture but also looks at what they can pick up from other countries. France is a good example of this, and South Africa has been quick to forge close trade links with them over time. In tandem with this, France itself has also been keen to build up good relations with South Africa and established the French South African Chamber of Commerce Industry to help in 1979.

As a result of this, there are several French imports into South Africa now which have become very popular. These well-known imports have not only become a central part of South Africa’s own culture but have also helped people in the country learn more about the best bits of French culture.

Below are some of the most popular French imports in South Africa:

French lottery

Although there are many key French imports we could talk about, the French lottery is one that is well-known around the country. South Africans not only read about how this particular lotto works but also check out the latest France lotto results regularly.

This lottery is drawn three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and involves entrants picking five numbers plus a bonus one to play. While the home-grown South African lotteries may be more familiar on a national scale, many people in the country know about this French import.

High-end French fashion brands

Another popular import from France within South Africa is luxury fashion and clothing brands. This taps into the current appetite for high-end fashion around the country and the way modern South Africans like to not only look good but feel good too. Major French brands in this sector are an ideal choice because they offer a sense of luxurious style and eye-catching glamour.

French companies who have found favour around South Africa include iconic names such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel and Givenchy. With the demand around the nation for the clothes that brands like this provide, it’s clear that this is one French import that is not going anywhere soon. When news of the fake micro Louis Vuitton handbag which sold for r12 million recently is taken into account, it is even more obvious just how much South Africans love their top French fashion brands!

Ligue 1 football

Sport in South Africa remains a key part of society and football is arguably the number one choice for fans still. Although competitions such as the South African Premier League, English Premier League and UEFA Champions League pick up lots of headlines, Ligue 1 football from France has a passionate following as well.

South Africans are keen to watch teams like PSG, Monaco and Nice in action. Supporters of French football across the country also like to track how global superstars who play in Ligue 1 are getting on. All of this has seen France’s top division become a popular import into South Africa.

Champagne

In line with a love for high-end French fashion across South Africa, a penchant for the very best in French alcohol is also interesting to note. Champagne is the best example and can only be called champagne if it’s produced in a specific part of France.

South Africa was the top importer of champagne across all of Africa in 2022 and brought in a staggering 1.34 million bottles during that period. This shows how popular champagne is nationally and the importance of South Africa to France’s national economy.

When a broader perspective is taken, alcohol from France in general is one of the top imports South Africans love. An estimated $11m in French cider came into the country during 2022 alongside $80m in hard liquor. So, what lies behind this love for French alcoholic imports? It mainly comes down to South Africans being sociable people who enjoy having a good time with friends, while enjoying tasty drinks like champagne at the same time.

Top French imports around South Africa

A closer look at the ties between South Africa and France makes it clear how certain French imports have found favour nationally. These imports have firmly established themselves in South African culture and are sure to become even more popular as time progresses. Of course, as we move forward, we may also see a new wave of imports from France having a similar impact.