Commodities Trader Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Operates as an independent agent to bring together buyers and sellers of commodities, negotiates private sales and arranges sales through established market places.
What does a Commodities Trader do?
A commodities trader connects people or organisations that want to buy and sell commodities. They identify suitable buyers and sellers, negotiate private deals, and arrange transactions through established marketplaces. The work may focus on products such as agricultural produce, grain, livestock, minerals, tobacco, wool or other specialised commodities.
Specialisations
How to become a Commodities Trader in South Africa
- Learn about commodity markets and the products traded in the area that interests you, such as agriculture, livestock, minerals or textiles.
- Build knowledge of buying, selling, negotiation and marketplace transactions through relevant study, practical exposure or work experience.
- Develop contacts with potential buyers, sellers and market participants.
- Seek entry-level opportunities with commodity trading, broking, procurement or produce-buying businesses to gain commercial experience.
- Progress by taking on more responsibility for negotiating deals and managing relationships with buyers and sellers; confirm current employer expectations and any applicable industry rules with the relevant organisations.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
There may be no single universal qualification pathway for commodities traders. Education in commerce, finance, economics, agriculture or a related area may support preparation, while practical market knowledge, industry contacts and experience are also valuable. Requirements can differ between commodity specialisations and employers, so verify current expectations with relevant employers, training providers or official industry bodies.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Accounting
- Economics
- Business Studies
- English
- Agricultural Sciences
Skills that may help
- Negotiation
- Clear verbal and written communication
- Commercial judgement
- Market awareness
- Relationship building
- Numeracy and financial understanding
- Organisation and coordination
- Independent decision-making