The spot price of white maize smashed through R3 000 a ton this week, up 51% from its mid-2017 harvest low. Similarly, yellow maize has touched R2 800 a ton, up from R1 850 in 2017.

Over the next four years, the economic giant is predicted to overtake France and the United Kingdom to become the world's second-largest market for wine, behind the United States.

South Africa has in the past missed some opportunities in pushing its agricultural agenda during broader trade negotiations, says Dr Konanani Liphadzi, Fruit SA CEO (right), but she considers that the recent change in government has brought an increased appreciation of the value of the fruit sector for the South African economy.

In the past few months, more garlic has been harvested in the northern hemisphere than in the previous season, so there are rising concerns for the future. Prices are under pressure and, according to growers in different countries, they have actually dropped to unbearable levels. There is a similar situation everywhere in the world.

In South Africa, potato is grown in both winter and summer in a wide range of climates. Climate change in potato production areas of South Africa is expected to lead to higher temperatures, increasing the incidence of heat stress and dry spells.

The cotton industry in South Africa has been revived thanks to a R200 million government-funded programme that has unlocked private sector investments and buying power worth hundreds of millions.