South Africa’s agriculture and related services industry delivered strong numbers in 2024. The latest Agricultural Survey (P1101) reveals growth in income, rising employment, and increasing costs across the sector. Here are the seven most important insights every farmer should know:

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1. Agriculture Generated R537,1 Billion in 2024

Total income in the agriculture and related services industry reached R537,1 billion, up from R489,6 billion in 2023.

That’s a 9,7% increase year-on-year, showing solid sector growth despite economic and input cost pressures.

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2. Livestock Remains the Industry’s Top Earner

The biggest contributor to income was animals and animal products, generating R206,5 billion in sales.

Livestock, poultry, dairy, and related industries continue to anchor the agricultural economy — reinforcing their importance to both domestic consumption and export markets.

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3. Horticulture Is a Major Growth Driver

Horticultural crops and products brought in R131,3 billion in 2024.

From citrus and avocados to vegetables and nuts, horticulture remains one of the most dynamic and export-oriented segments of the sector.

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4. Field Crops Contributed Over R114 Billion

Field crops generated R114,6 billion, confirming their continued importance in food security and commodity markets.

Maize, wheat, oilseeds, and other staple crops remain central to South Africa’s agricultural output.

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5. Large Enterprises Control Nearly Two-Thirds of Revenue

Enterprise contributions in 2024 were as follows:

• Large enterprises: R353,4 billion (65,8%)
• Small enterprises: R106,1 billion (19,8%)
• Medium enterprises: R46,3 billion (8,6%)
• Micro enterprises: R31,3 billion (5,8%)

Large-scale operations dominate total income, but small and emerging farmers still account for nearly one-fifth of the industry’s revenue — highlighting their growing economic impact.

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6. Costs Rose Faster Than Income

Total industry expenditure climbed to R511,3 billion in 2024, up from R460,0 billion in 2023 — an 11,1% increase.

That means expenses grew faster than income, potentially squeezing profit margins.

The biggest cost drivers were:

• Purchases (53,0%) – inputs like feed, seed, fertilizer and fuel
• Salaries and wages (11,6%)
• Repairs and maintenance (4,9%)
• Depreciation (4,9%)

Managing input costs will remain critical in 2025.

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7. Employment Increased to Over 840,000 Workers

As of June 2024, the agriculture and related services industry employed 840 407 people, compared to 814 793 in June 2023.

That’s a 3,1% increase in employment, reinforcing agriculture’s role as a key job creator — particularly in rural communities.

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The Bottom Line for Farmers

The 2024 Agricultural Survey shows a sector that is:

✔ Growing in income

✔ Expanding employment

✔ Facing rising cost pressures

✔ Still heavily driven by livestock and horticulture

The opportunity for 2025 lies in improving efficiency, protecting margins, diversifying revenue streams, and embracing innovation.

Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s strongest economic pillars — but profitability will depend on smart cost management and strategic growth.