Steenhuisen: GDP numbers proves value of SA farmers
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has lauded the role played by South African farmers in the country’s economy.
The sector showed strong performance in both exports and employment between January and March.
Stats SA’s latest GDP figures show the agricultural sector grew by 15.8%, contributing 0.4 percentage points to overall economic growth.
Steenhuisen says the growth was driven by higher export volumes of grapes, maize, apples, and wine, supported by stronger international commodity prices.
"The sector achieved $3.36 billion in agricultural exports, representing a significant 10% increase year-on-year,” said Steenhuisen.
"We can all agree that agriculture plays a vital role in our nation’s economic ambitions and contributes significantly to our trade balance.”
He also highlighted agriculture’s potential as a key driver of job creation.
In May, Stats SA’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey showed a 1% increase in primary agriculture jobs from the previous quarter, bringing total employment to 930,000 in the first quarter of 2025.
Steenhuisen said the increase was mostly seen in field crops, game, and hunting subsectors.
Although employment was still down 1% year-on-year, he believes the sector is on a steady path to recovery.
"This mild recovery in employment is a welcomed sign, and the Department of Agriculture is committed to implementing interventions to support the subsectors and regions still feeling the effects of previous challenges,” he said.
With June marking Youth Month, Steenhuisen emphasised the importance of involving young people in agriculture to ensure its long-term sustainability and growth.
"To attract and retain young talent requires significant investment and concerted efforts through the entire value chain,” he said.
He called for accessible financial support for young entrepreneurs, modern agricultural education in schools, vocational training, land access, market opportunities, and adoption of technology.
"This will help promote positive narratives about agriculture as a dynamic, innovative, and rewarding career path, showcasing diverse opportunities beyond traditional farming, such as logistics, agri-tech, food processing, and research.”
"The future of our country and that of our agricultural sector hinges on the active involvement of our young people. We need to ignite a passion for farming, agribusiness, and the entire agricultural value chain among our youth,” he said.
"The energy, innovation, and adaptability of our young citizens are precisely what our agricultural sector needs to reach its full potential and ensure lasting food security.”
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