South African agriculture in 2025 has been a year of contrasts – a mix of solid gains and troubling setbacks. This makes it difficult to declare the year either wholly successful or overwhelmingly challenging. What is clear, however, is that the sector has once again shown its resilience.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
The year started off tough for many producers, especially grain farmers. Heavy rainfall, unusually high for the early months, interfered with harvesting, and in some regions rain persisted even into mid-harvest. This caused widespread delays and raised concerns about grain quality. White maize, in particular, suffered from excessive moisture, but the overall impact was not as devastating as initially feared.
Ironically, the same rains that complicated harvesting also provided exceptional support for summer crop plantings. Early concerns about planting delays quickly faded as rainfall remained favourable right through to late April. As agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo recently noted, South Africa closed the 2024/25 summer grains and oilseeds season with a remarkable 20.2 million tonnes, a 30% increase from the previous year. Every major crop recorded growth. Soybeans hit an all-time high of 2.77 million tonnes, while maize delivered the second-largest crop on record at 16.44 million tonnes.
These positive effects of the La Niña rainfall pattern weren’t limited to field crops. The sugar industry, fruit producers, vegetable growers and winemakers also enjoyed robust harvests.
The poultry sector, often squeezed by high feed prices, found welcome relief in the form of cheaper maize and soybeans. With feed accounting for up to 70% of production costs, these lower prices significantly improved margins and operating conditions.
Agricultural exports also reflected this improved output. In the first three quarters of 2025, South Africa exported agricultural goods worth $11.7 billion – a 10% increase on the previous year. This performance is especially encouraging given the shifting global trade landscape and policy uncertainties. Improvements in port logistics further boosted export efficiency, helping to keep South Africa competitive on global markets.
But the year brought serious challenges, too. The cattle industry has been under sustained pressure due to the ongoing spread of foot-and-mouth disease. Several export markets implemented temporary restrictions, costing the country an estimated R1.5 billion in lost beef export revenue this year alone. The industry continues to work hard to contain the disease, but much more still needs to be done at national level.
The relationship between South Africa and the United States also remains uncertain, particularly regarding our status under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). With shifting political dynamics under President Trump, it would be unwise to make assumptions about the future of this trade partnership. For now, we wait, cautiously.
Despite these obstacles, we at African Farming remain deeply grateful to be part of this vibrant industry. Serving farmers, agripreneurs and all agricultural stakeholders is a privilege we do not take lightly. The support you show us, through readership, attendance at our events, partnerships and sponsorships, drives our growth and strengthens our commitment.
And grow we have. Our events continue to expand. Our website visitors are increasing every month. Our social media following, particularly on Facebook, recently surpassed an incredible 170 000 followers. These milestones are humbling reminders that African Farming is not just a platform; it is a community built on trust, passion and shared purpose.
As the year winds down, many of us are understandably exhausted and looking forward to a short break over the Christmas holidays. Our farmers, of course, often have no such luxury, and we salute them for their tireless dedication. To our loyal readers, you will notice reduced activity on our website and social channels as our small team takes a much-needed rest. Thank you for your understanding. We are recharging so we can deliver an even better 2026.
Thank you for your unwavering support throughout 2025. I wish you a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
See you in 2026!
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