Sunflower industry remains cautious but optimistic

With the new season only just beginning, there are contradictory views about farmers' intention to plant. However, all parties can agree that the weather and soil conditions will play a major role in final yield.

- Magda du Toit

As about 90% of South Africa's summer grain crops, including sunflower, are predominantly planted on dryland, adverse weather and rainfall patterns have a major impact on production. However, when looking forward to the 2025/26 season, the production outlook is cautiously optimistic for grain and oilseed farmers.

Given recent years of weather variability linked to El Niño and La Niña weather patterns, combined with lower returns on investments and rising production costs and risks especially in marginal areas, farmers will remain cautious.

Marguerite Pienaar, economist at Grain SA, said that crop intentions for 2026 highlight the agriculture sector adapting strategically to new realities.

"Farmers are managing risk by choosing crops that offer stronger market potential and resilience under unpredictable climate conditions. Water availability remains a decisive factor, with producers monitoring reservoir levels and soil moisture before finalising planting plans," Pienaar said.

Regarding expectations for the next season, she notes that the 2025/26 summer crop season could strengthen South Africa's position as a leading grain and oilseed producer in the Southern African region if the weather is favourable and global markets stabilise.

CHOOSING SUNFLOWER

Sunflower's ability to produce relatively consistent yields under adverse weather conditions makes it an attractive option, especially for farmers who produce under dryland conditions, according to Hendrik van Staden, Syngenta Seeds Field Crops Head for Africa and the Middle East.

“The crop’s ability to deal with adverse climate condition makes it a good alternative to other [grain or oilseed] crops.”

Van Staden said that Syngenta Seeds expected a slight growth in sunflower plantings for the coming season, despite market and environmental pressures.