In his new book, regular M&G contributor Wandile Sihlobo explores South Africa’s disparities, challenges and solutions
The country’s sector should be robust enough to survive renewed global risks
The figures demonstrate a counter position to the generally optimistic outlook of the sector
The non-renewal of the Black Sea Grain Deal and India’s rice ban continue to weigh heavily on production
Grain supplies for both domestic consumption and export remain healthy
Regardless of the instability of world production, there are strong reasons to feel optimistic about grocery prices
South Africa may well need to consider new sources of rice imports
Sales are likely to slow going into 2024 because of rising interest rates, the rand/dollar exchange rate and lower grain and soybean prices
The widening trade surplus is mainly a result of a notable decline in import value, not necessarily a growth in exports
The prices of cereals, meat, fish, fruit oils and fats will moderate but the rand/dollar exchange rate remains a risk