South Africa raises maize harvest forecast to 17.4 million tonnes

by TINTSWALO BALOYI 
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – SOUTH Africa’s maize harvest is expected to reach 17.4 million tonnes in the 2025/26 season, 4.5% higher than the previous season, according to the government’s Crop Estimates Committee.

The latest estimate represents a modest increase from the previous forecast and confirms expectations of another relatively strong harvest.

White maize is forecast at about 9.49 million tonnes, while yellow maize production is expected to reach roughly 7.91 million tonnes.

The distinction matters because white maize is primarily used for human consumption, while yellow maize is an important feed ingredient.

A larger crop could help strengthen domestic food supplies and reduce pressure on prices, although final consumer prices will also depend on storage, transport, currency movements and international grain markets.

South Africa is one of the continent’s major maize producers and plays an important role in regional food security.

A strong harvest can therefore support neighbouring countries when domestic production is insufficient.

For farmers, higher production is positive, but larger supplies can also put downward pressure on farm-gate prices if demand does not keep pace.

The agriculture sector is simultaneously facing climate risks, rising input costs and uncertainty over international trade conditions.

The latest harvest forecast therefore provides welcome relief but does not remove the structural risks confronting farmers.

For livestock producers, higher yellow-maize availability could help moderate feed costs. For households, increased white-maize supplies could improve food security.

The harvest is also important for South Africa’s agricultural exports and its role as a regional supplier.

The bigger crop strengthens South Africa’s food-security position and could ease supply pressures, but farmers’ profitability will depend heavily on prices, logistics and export demand once the harvest reaches the market.

– CAJ News