Livestock diseases weigh on agriculture recovery

SOUTH Africa’s agricultural sector is experiencing uneven recovery in 2025, with strong gains in field crops, fruits and vegetables offset by persistent challenges in the livestock industry, according to the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz).

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo yesterday said the latest data shows a robust recovery in crops and horticulture, supported by favourable rains, but warned that animal diseases continue to weigh heavily on livestock producers.

“From the high-frequency data, we are starting to see mixed fortunes. There is a robust recovery in field crops, vegetables, and fruits, thanks to good rains, but the livestock industry continues to struggle with animal diseases,’ Sihlobo said.

However, he said the livestock industry continues to struggle with foot-and-mouth disease.

“We have also continued to struggle with foot-and-mouth disease and a few cases of avian influenza, particularly in the second quarter. It was at the end of the second quarter that the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccines arrived in South Africa for the start of the vaccination campaign.”