Boost in South Africa’s grain harvest brings hope to farmers

Published Mar 18, 2025

Tridge summary

South African farming associations are optimistic about the country's significant harvest forecast of 17.2 million tonnes, marking an 11% increase from the previous season. The Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) revised its sunflower seed production forecast, showing a robust growth of 13.93% from last year. This is seen as a recovery for the sector following a severe drought in the 2023-24 season. The first production estimates for the 2024-25 summer grains and oilseeds are also expected to show improvement.

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Original content

Farming associations across South Africa are celebrating optimistic forecasts from the Crop Estimates Committee (CEC), projecting the nation’s harvest at a significant 17.2 million tonnes, marking an 11% increase from the previous season. This upward trend is stirring hope among farmers who endured challenging conditions last year. In addition, the CEC revised its estimate for sunflower seed—a staple in South African agriculture—indicating that 555 700 hectares have been planted, which is 5.05% (or 26 700 hectares) more than the previous year. The sunflower seed production forecast stands at 720 050 tons, showcasing a robust growth of 13.93%, or 88 050 tons, from last year’s figure of 632 000 tons. Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist for the Agricultural Business Chamber of SA (Agbiz), said that South Africa’s agricultural production conditions were improving, bolstering our long-held belief in a better season ahead. “We have been stating for some time that this will likely be a ...

Source: UkrAgroConsult