WATCH: Positive jobs growth in Agriculture
Amid persistent economic headwinds and elevated national unemployment rates, South Africa’s agricultural sector has continuously proven itself as an unsung hero of the economy. The sector’s resilience on the employment front offers a compelling blueprint for sustainable economic recovery and job creation.
According to the latest data, employment in the farming sector reached approximately 944,000 people in the second quarter of 2026—a 4% increase year-on-year and a remarkable 9% above pre-COVID levels. Driven by strong activity in horticulture, field crops, and the broader agricultural value chain, these figures highlight the sector’s immense potential to absorb labour when given the right conditions.
Incentivising the Agri-Economy: A Policy Imperative
Given South Africa’s urgent need to curb unemployment, policy-makers, industry leaders, and ecosystem stakeholders must actively incentivise businesses operating across the broader agri-economy. Unlocking further growth requires addressing critical operational pressures, including:
- Rising Input Costs: Navigating higher fuel and fertilizer prices driven by ongoing global geopolitical tensions.
- Climate Vulnerabilities: Preparing for weather fluctuations, such as potential below-normal rainfall associated with El Niño cycles.
- Policy & Labor Clarity: Ensuring sustainable labour availability amid the ongoing national discourse around immigration.
By creating targeted incentives, investing in infrastructure, and protecting local agricultural value chains, stakeholders can help sustain the sector’s robust job growth into 2027 and beyond.
Watch: AgriView with Wandile Sihlobo
To get a deeper breakdown of what these latest employment metrics mean for the country’s trajectory, watch the latest episode of AgriView with Wandile. Renowned agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo examines where the strongest job gains are emerging, unpacks the benefits of strong harvests and favourable input cycles, and outlines the strategic risks facing the agricultural market.
Watch the full episode below:
