Find Agriculture expertise in South Africa
- Industry
- Development
Industry
Agriculture, forestry and fisheries contributed 2.4% of South Africa’s GDP in 2010. Agriculture employs 5% of people and accounts for 81.7% of land use. South Africa has a dual agricultural economy, consisting of commercial farming and a strong export market, alongside subsistence-based production that supports local communities. The country is self-sufficient in most major agricultural products, both crops and livestock and is a net food exporter. The main crops are corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruits and vegetables and the principal livestock products are beef, poultry, mutton, wool and dairy products. South Africa is counter-seasonal to Europe and the closest major southern hemisphere exporter, which gives it a competitive advantage over most competitors. Farming contributes around 8% of the country’s total exports. The country is among the world’s top five exporters of avocados, grapefruit, tangerines, plums, pears, table grapes (for consumption rather than wine) and ostrich products. In addition, South Africa is one of the world’s main wine exporters, making the country both an important trading partner and a viable investment destination. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries regulates the industry.
