We are at the Kwa-Shukela (South African Sugar Association Headquarters) in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, today, engaging with various agribusinesses. One thing noticeable on our way down here is the excellent rainfall in different regions of Gauteng and through to KwaZulu-Natal. I am highlighting the rains because we will soon begin with the 2025-26 production season for field crops and horticulture. The early rains help improve soil moisture, ahead of the start of the summer crop season in mid-October 2025.
Importantly, we have observed general optimism about the 2025-26 season amongst farmers. The weather outlook is positive, with a likelihood of more La Niña-induced summer rains. Tractor sales have also remained encouraging, indicating that farmers are preparing for a busy season ahead. The sentiment, as illustrated in the Agbiz/IDC Agribusiness Confidence Index, has also been relatively positive.
So, all else being equal, we are looking to have another great season. The primary worry, of course, remains the animal diseases which continue to put pressure on our livestock industry.
As I am typing this from the Headquarters of the South African Sugar Association, I must note that the industry has had a reasonably good year in terms of production. The South African sugar production for the 2024-25 season is forecast to increase by 7% year-on-year to 2.09 million tonnes, driven by favourable weather conditions and sufficient water availability for irrigation. Given the expected better weather conditions in the 2025-26 season, one can anticipate a better harvest for the sugar industry in the next season as well.
And yes, the picture ahead has nothing to do with this post. I took it inside the building at Kwa-Shukela. I liked all these SADC flags, and SA leading the way. We must continue to lead the region.
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