The need to improve logistics efficiency and curb the deterioration of infrastructure remains a topical issue in South Africa's agriculture.

The data released by Statistics South Africa this morning shows that consumer food price inflation accelerated to 6,2% y/y in January 2022, from 5,9% y/y in the previous month. Fish, oils and fats, and vegetables are the primary products underpinning this uptick in the overall consumer food price inflation.

Many analysts found a reason to lambast South African President Cyril Ramaphosa 2022 State of the Nation Address. But on a high (pun intended), the address’ strong push for liberalization of the cannabis industry for economic purposes is one of the key levers for rural economic growth.

 A central theme in President Ramaphosa's 2022 State of the Nation Address (SONA) was the government’s work in improving the efficiency of physical and regulatory infrastructure aimed at unlocking private sector-led economic growth.

Agbiz lauds the pragmatic approach of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2022 SONA and is ready to partner for inclusive growth and job creation.

The higher input costs, which have been the dominant feature of South Africa's agricultural sector over the past year, will likely prevail in the coming months, with negative effects on farmers' financial conditions.