South African agriculture is comprised of mainly two categories of farmers -- the subsistence farmers in the former homeland areas and the large-scale commercial  farmers. This is in contrast with the situation in many other countries in the world where one would find a whole range of farm sizes, ranging from the very small or subsistence farmer to the very large farmer/agribusiness. 

Colonialism brought large-scale farming to Africa, promising modernisation and jobs – but often dispossessing people and exploiting workers. Now, after several decades of independence, and with investor interest growing, African governments are once again promoting large plantations and estates. But the new corporate interest in African agriculture has been criticised as a “land grab(link is external)”.

As the backbone of developing economies, agriculture not only serves to feed a nation but creates employment and, often, contributes significantly to the GDP.

Drought conditions could reduce the South African corn crop by 20% this year, presenting short-term demand shortfalls in the region. The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) recently sent a team to South Africa to explore the situation firsthand and identify opportunities for exports of U.S. corn and sorghum.

Agriculture and food security are at the top of South Africa’s development agenda, enjoying the support of Government and attracting favourable investments from both the public & private sector.

A farmer works so the world can eat. His hard work serves food on our plates.

We have a finance plan for you in place.  March 2025

Commercial farming is the pillar of the global agriculture industry. Large-scale farming is far from being a new concept.

The pain in the soft or agricultural commodities sector started in 2020, when a Covid-induced supply chain disruption scenario drove soft commodity prices higher.

South Africa’s agricultural sector stands at a crossroads. - Summary