In 2025, South Africa’s agricultural sector is experiencing a resurgence, with farmer incomes showing a noticeable upward trend after a difficult 2024. A combination of favorable weather conditions, strategic policy initiatives, and new export opportunities is breathing new life into an industry that plays a vital role in the country’s economy.
A Fresh Start After a Tough Year
Last year was particularly harsh for South African farmers, marked by poor weather, disease outbreaks, and fluctuating commodity prices. However, the tides have turned. Early indicators in 2025 show signs of strong recovery, with farmer earnings rising across several key industries, including horticulture, livestock, and crop farming.
According to data from Agbiz and the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy, farmer revenue is on track to surpass 2023 levels by a considerable margin, thanks in large part to expanding export deals and a more stable climate outlook.
Key Factors Behind the Income Surge
One of the most impactful changes has been South Africa’s expansion into new global markets. In late 2024 and early 2025, the country secured fresh trade agreements to export grapes to the Philippines and apples to Thailand. These deals are already paying off. For example, fruit exports alone brought in over $1.3 billion USD in 2024, with projections for this year even higher.
Weather patterns are also playing in farmers’ favor. A predicted return of La Niña is set to increase rainfall and improve crop yields. The Department of Agriculture expects a 10.9% jump in summer crop production, estimating a total of 17.23 million tons. This means more grain and feed availability, which could reduce costs for livestock farmers and boost their margins.
In the policy space, the newly energized Government of National Unity is doubling down on agricultural reform. Through the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP), the government is promoting climate-smart agriculture, land reform, and value-chain improvements all designed to boost productivity and make farming more sustainable and profitable.
Industry-Wise Breakdown
Horticulture
The fruit industry is currently leading the pack. Grapes, citrus, nuts, and apples continue to dominate South Africa’s agricultural exports. New access to Asian markets is pushing up prices and increasing demand, which directly benefits growers. The horticultural sector, already known for its export value, is expected to grow even further throughout 2025.
Livestock
Livestock farmers are recovering from recent disease outbreaks, particularly foot-and-mouth disease. Improved veterinary oversight and successful containment efforts have reopened export avenues for red meat, which had previously been restricted. As a result, income levels in this sector are gradually improving.
Field Crops
After a difficult 2024 for field crops especially maize, which saw major yield drops 2025 is shaping up to be far more favorable. With better weather and lower input costs, maize and wheat farmers are expecting stronger harvests. The South African Grain Information Service has projected a significant rebound in yields, which should ease pressure on both domestic food supply and exports.
Employment and Economic Impacts
The agricultural sector continues to be a critical source of employment, supporting over 920,000 jobs as of the end of 2024. This is slightly above the five-year average and a clear indicator of the sector’s resilience. The recent income growth suggests that more jobs may be added in 2025, particularly in export-related roles and agro-processing.
Moreover, a strong agricultural rebound could be a cornerstone in South Africa’s broader economic recovery. With agriculture contributing approximately 2.5% to the national GDP directly and more through connected industries a productive farming season has wide-reaching effects.
Challenges That Still Remain
Despite these promising signs, not everything is smooth sailing. South Africa’s agriculture still faces structural challenges, including underdeveloped rural infrastructure, persistent inequality in land ownership, and increasing climate variability. Droughts and water scarcity remain major concerns in some provinces, and long-term solutions will require both public and private investment.
The Road Ahead
All signs point to 2025 being a strong year for South African agriculture. If current trends continue, farmers across the country can expect higher earnings, greater stability, and better prospects for long-term growth. Continued policy support, smart investments, and access to new global markets will be critical in sustaining this momentum.