The South African agriculture sector has had a good start to 2021, with favourable rainfall supporting crop yields and grazing veld.
This is the second consecutive season of strong performance for the sector, after 2020 saw bumper harvests of various crops and subsequently the second-largest export earnings on record of US$10,2 billion (about R138 billion).
With 2021 set to present even larger yields for major field crops, horticulture and the wine industry, exports could surpass 2020 levels. In the first quarter (Q1) of 2021, agricultural exports amounted to US$2,9 billion (R39 billion), which is a 28% increase year-on-year (y/y).
The magnitude of the increase compared with last year’s is due partly to base effects, as Q1 2020 was affected by the COVID-19-related disruptions to global supply chains. However, the growth also reflects the rising export performance of various products.
TOP PRODUCTS
In Q1 2021, the top exportable products were fresh grapes, groundnut oil, maize and maize meal, wine, greasy wool, fresh plums, fresh pears, and fresh apples, among others. We expect these products to dominate the export list throughout the year, as production promises to exceed last year’s levels.
The South African Wine Industry Information and Systems forecasts a 2021 wine grape crop of 1,5 million tons, which is 9% higher than the 2020 harvest. This is likely to contribute to increased wine exports this year.
This story is from the June 25, 2021 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 25, 2021 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Care of newborn lambs and goat kids
It may be a relatively simple task to successfully get rams to mate and for females to give birth, but the first couple of weeks of the life of a lamb or kid is a crucial period in livestock farming.
Don't ignore ChatGPT for one more day
If you are not using the free artificial intelligence app you’re missing out on assistance from the most potent personal assistant you could ever have.
Afternoon tea at the famous Mount Nelson
Brian Berkman says there’s not much to beat afternoon drinks and snacks served in the gardens at the newly refurbished Mount Nelson.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 4
Bill Kerr says that increasing the organic and microbe content of your soil is the first step to ensuring healthier crops and greater yields.
Luxurious and powerful workhorse at a great price
The new JAC T9 is certainly great value for money by offering features and driver comforts that compare with brands twice its retail price.
Are there solutions to antibiotic resistance, or are we running out of time to find new antibiotics?
Free State regional sales manager for Alltech, discusses how farmers can mitigate the use of antibiotics in cattle.
Dream stud Merinos
This stud was winning awards and attracting top prices, thanks to a quality sire imported from Australia eight years ago.
Choosing a breed that goes along with your lifestyle
Jarred Hodgson gives farmers advice on choosing the dog breed best suited to them, their families and operations. Although only four specific breeds are highlighted here, other breeds can also be considered.
Wheat production in South Africa
Master’s in Integrated Pest Management candidate at North-West University Zunel van Eeden explores the increasing importance of wheat production and the challenges experienced on the way to harvest time.
Sorghum essential for South Africa
Magda du Toit discusses Grain SA’s focus on sorghum as an important grain crop to cultivate, research and develop further in the country.
