In this episode of AgriView, Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist of Agbiz, analyses South Africa’s strong agricultural performance in 2025, with exports reaching a record $15.1 billion – up 10% on the previous year – despite global trade uncertainty.
Growth was driven by a favourable La Niña season, continued technology investment on farms and improved logistics cooperation, while challenges such as foot-and-mouth disease persisted. Africa remains the largest export market, with further expansion into Asia, the Middle East and the EU.
The conversation also sheds light on trade tariffs, rising imports and the sector’s $7.3 billion trade surplus, as well as what to expect in 2026.
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