mmdeinternational.com“🌽 Falling Maize Prices Bring Relief to South African Consumers & Farmers Amid Record Harvest 📉🇿🇦”
mmdeinternational.com“🌽 Falling Maize Prices Bring Relief to South African Consumers & Farmers Amid Record Harvest 📉🇿🇦”
South Africa is experiencing a significant drop in maize prices, providing much-needed relief to consumers and farmers alike. According to the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), white maize prices have decreased by over 35% year-on-year, now trading at R3,595 per ton, while yellow maize prices are down more than 20%, at R3,450 per ton. This decline is attributed to a substantial 26% increase in the 2024–25 maize harvest, reaching 16.12 million tons, well above the country's annual consumption of approximately 12 million tons. Consequently, South Africa remains a net exporter of maize, with a healthy surplus.The surge in maize production has also led to a decrease in maize meal prices, benefiting low-income households that rely heavily on this staple food. Evashnee Naidu, KwaZulu-Natal regional manager of Black Sash, emphasized that this drop in maize meal prices will significantly ease food insecurity for impoverished households and those dependent on social grants. However, she urged the government to continue efforts to curb food inflation and ensure consistent affordability. Despite the current low prices, Agbiz economist Wandile Sihlobo cautioned that maize prices might edge slightly higher toward the end of the season. This potential increase is due to a relatively slow pace of export activity, with only 650,897 tonnes exported between May and September 2025, falling short of seasonal expectations. However, Sihlobo anticipates more robust export activity later in the year and early 2026, as some countries in the region deplete their supplies.In summary, the current period of lower maize prices offers significant relief to South African consumers and farmers, especially those in lower-income brackets. While the outlook remains positive, continued vigilance and strategic planning will be essential to maintain food affordability and security in the coming months.
