Fears of a looming global food crisis are dominating headlines – but are they justified? In this episode of AgriView, Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist of Agbiz, unpacks the recent concerns sparked by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and explains why, despite disruptions in fertiliser markets and global trade uncertainty, the world is currently well-supplied with key agricultural commodities.
From record global wheat production to abundant sugar and maize stocks, the data suggests that panic may be premature – at least for now.
Looking ahead, however, the real risks lie in what comes next. With a potential El Niño weather pattern, rising input costs, and uncertain planting decisions in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, the outlook for 2027 and beyond remains far less certain.
Wandile breaks down the critical factors that will shape global food security in the coming seasons – and why the real question isn’t about today’s supply, but tomorrow’s production.
Also read and watch:
El Niño on the horizon – key risks to watch
Why South Africa can’t abandon its Middle East agricultural market despite regional conflict
Trading in an uncertain world
Are we getting too much rain?
Agricultural Production Outlook for 2026
Agri-tourism unlocking rural potential
SA agriculture is NOT under siege!
