As the curtain closes on 2025, South African agriculture reflects on a year shaped by stewardship, recovery and growth across commodities. It serves as a reminder to producers that progress is built through faith, discipline and collective effort.
Grain SA: Honouring achievements
Grain SA CEO Tobias Doyer framed the year as one of gratitude and responsibility. He said that as another year comes to an end, they pause to breathe, reflect, and give thanks.
“For those of us privileged to serve the agricultural sector, it is a deeply felt moment of gratitude that reminds us of the ordained stewardship for producing food and sustaining livelihoods,” he said.
Doyer’s reflections centred on the Grain Producer of the Year Awards and the Golden Grain Awards, which he described as far more than a celebration of achievement.
The awards honoured leaders whose impact stretches beyond production. Jaco Minnaar was recognised for integrity and service that combine science, faith and humility.
Former Grain SA chairperson Derek Mathews was acknowledged for leadership defined by unity, transformation and the enduring reminders to keep doing the right thing. Jozeph du Plessis received the Inspiration Award for two decades of mentorship, innovation and faith-driven leadership.
CGA: Mandarin season exceeds expectations
While grain producers reflected on stewardship and leadership, the citrus industry closed the year on a note of exceptional growth. The Citrus Growers’ Association (CGA) noted that the “2025 mandarin season was marked by a substantial and steady increase in production, with volumes consistently surpassing early expectations.”
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Production volumes repeatedly exceeded expectations to reach a final packed volume of 53.5 million cartons, a 19% increase on initial estimates.
High volumes from new Nadorcott/Tango orchards came into full production, expanded Orri plantings in the Western Cape, and strong yields in regions such as Senwes and Boland.
According to the CGA, markets absorbed the larger crop, with Europe remaining dominant at 16 million cartons. There was strong growth in the Middle East and Asia, and sharply increased shipments to Russia. CGA notes that the season will be remembered as a landmark test of the industry’s agility, resilience and foresight.
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Hortgro: Optimism for the 2025/2026 stone fruit season
Looking ahead, Hortgro signalled cautious optimism for stone fruit producers. Communications manager Elise-Marie Steenkamp said favourable winter and blossom conditions have resulted in good fruit set.
“Although the season has just begun, it appears to be off to a promising start. Nectarine volumes are expected to recover to their normal levels,” Steenkamp said.
Despite a cold winter and relatively low rainfall, irrigation dams are expected to supply sufficient water for the coming summer, supporting good eating and keeping quality.
According to Steenkamp, nectarines continue to lead orchard investment, with a 26% increase in hectares over five years, while other categories have declined modestly.
Although logistics remain a constraint, particularly at the Port of Cape Town, Steenkamp noted that infrastructure upgrades and improved coordination offer hope for smoother exports. New market access to China for several stone fruit categories further strengthens the sector’s long-term outlook, provided operational challenges are managed effectively.
South Africa Wine: Gratitude, collaboration and rest
Closing the year on a note of appreciation, South Africa Wine CEO Rico Basson thanked industry members for their support during a demanding but constructive year.
“It has been a big year for our industry, where we collectively had to steer many challenges but can also look back at progress across many relevant themes,” Basson said.
Basson added that while the industry’s focus is already shifting towards 2026, the immediate priority is rest and renewal. For now, he encouraged producers to pause and recharge, wishing members moments of rest, whether around festive tables, in vineyards, or somewhere quiet with a good glass in hand, while reminding those travelling to take care on the roads.
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