mmdeinternational.com - "🌽🇿🇦 South Africa’s Maize Harvest Soars 📈🌾 with 27% Boost!"

Crop Estimates Committee (CEC) has raised its forecast for South Africa’s 2024/25 maize crop to roughly 16.3 million metric tons, marking an approximate 27% increase from the previous season’s estimated 12.85 million tons. 

White maize (used for human consumption) is projected at ~8.3 million tons, and yellow maize (mainly for animal feed) at ~7.99 million tons. The yield per hectare is estimated at about 6.23 t/ha in the major producing provinces of Free State, Mpumalanga and North West, which together contribute around 80% of national output. The strong rebound follows the drought‑hit 2023/24 season, which left production significantly lower. 

With consumption in South Africa estimated at around 12 million tons annually, the forecasted harvest gives the country a clear surplus, positioning it as a potential net exporter of maize. I

The ample harvest is already putting downward pressure on domestic maize prices, which is beneficial for consumers and food industry stakeholders. 

The rebound reflects favourable weather conditions, improved yields, and a base effect (i.e., last year’s low base makes the increase larger in percentage terms). 

While the production outlook is strong, bigger harvests don’t automatically translate into higher incomes for farmers: logistics, storage, market access and export infrastructure still matter. Export demand may face regional competition: neighbouring countries are also recovering their crops, which could affect export volumes and prices. 

How much of the surplus will be exported vs retained for domestic use or placed into strategic reserves. How the increased supply will impact maize meal and animal feed prices in South Africa (and possibly in neighbouring countries). Whether policy decisions (tariffs, export incentives, storage investment) will support farmers in converting this strong season into stable earnings.