South African agriculture is showing its trademark resilience in 2026, but not without significant challenges. In this episode of AgriView, agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo unpacks the impact of devastating floods in the Eastern and Western Cape, ongoing disease pressures in the livestock sector, and what these setbacks mean for farmers, exports, jobs, and economic growth.
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While localised regions are facing severe losses and costly rebuilding efforts, South Africa remains well-positioned to meet its export commitments and deliver another year of agricultural growth.
Wandile explores why a record grain and oilseed harvest, strong fruit production, and improving feed costs are helping to offset some of the sector’s pain points.
He also highlights the importance of infrastructure recovery, government support, and the remarkable determination of farmers who continue to produce food under increasingly difficult conditions.
Is South African agriculture entering another growth year, or are the risks beginning to outweigh the opportunities?
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