What 2024 has in store for soya bean

In this article, Zunel van Eeden delves into the socioeconomic and agronomic benefits associated with soya bean production, while also addressing the persistent challenges posed by insect pests and diseases that have threatened harvests over the season and which have impacted many producers.

- Zunel van Eeden

Soya bean production ranks among the most popular grain crops in South Africa and when it comes to planted area and yield, soya bean offers both economic opportunities and essential nutritional resources. Over the years, the cultivation of soya bean has gained traction across various regions of the country, driven by its versatility, profitability, and the growing demand for plant-based protein sources.

OVERVIEW OF SOYA BEAN AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN SA

Africa’s soya bean production is increasing fast – at a pace of about 7% annually – and is primarily due to an increase in the crop’s cultivated area rather than yield. Over 35% of the continent’s soya bean production is accounted for by South Africa, the top producer in Africa. Although all nine provinces in South Africa grow soya bean due to the commodity’s high socioeconomic importance and many commercially available cultivars that are climate-adapted, the majority of the crop is produced in the Free State, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. In 2023, the total area planted was 1 148 300ha, which delivered a harvest of 2 755 300t, the highest yield experienced over the past five seasons. Although plantings have decreased to 1 036 600ha for the 2024 season (-9,7%), a harvest of about 2 170 000t is still expected and it remains well above the five-year average harvest, ensuring that South Africa remains a net exporter of soya bean (data from the Crop Estimate Committee).

FAST FACTS

South Africa is the top soya bean producer in Africa, contributing to 35% of the total production.