The latest economic figures once again confirm a reality that agricultural communities experience every day: South African farmers are a cornerstone of the country’s economic stability, food security and development.
According to the latest GDP figures from Statistics South Africa, the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector grew by 17.4% in 2025 compared with 2024, by far the strongest growth in the primary sector of the economy. This growth made an important contribution to South Africa’s annual GDP growth of 1.1%, while the economy expanded by 0.4% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
For TLU SA these figures are more than just statistics. They are clear evidence of the critical role that agriculture plays in South Africa, and of the continued dedication of farmers who keep producing under increasingly difficult circumstances.
According to Bennie van Zyl, general manager of TLU SA, the latest economic data shows that agriculture remains one of the few sectors that consistently creates value for the country.
“This growth confirms that agriculture is not merely a supporting sector of the economy, it is one of the sectors that truly carries the economy,” says Van Zyl. “Behind this 17.4% growth are thousands of farmers who make decisions every day, manage risks and continue to plant and produce despite uncertainty.”
Van Zyl says it is important for the country to realise that this achievement does not take place under ideal conditions.
“Farmers operate under pressures that few other sectors experience. We are talking about rising input costs, unreliable infrastructure, logistical challenges, water and energy problems, policy uncertainty and the continued threat of farm attacks and rural crime,” he says. “Despite this, farmers continue to produce food and make economic growth possible.”
According to TLU SA, it is precisely this perseverance that reflects the true value of the agricultural sector. While other sectors of the economy have in some cases contracted, agriculture has still managed to deliver growth.
“When agriculture grows, an entire network grows with it,” says Van Zyl. “This includes input suppliers, transport industries, food processing, export logistics and rural economies. The impact of agriculture therefore extends far beyond the farm gate.”
TLU SA believes that this growth is also an important reminder that agriculture is a strategic sector for South Africa’s future. In a country where unemployment remains high and economic growth is under pressure, agriculture offers real opportunities for development, job creation and stability.
“Food security and economic stability begin with the people who work the land,” says Van Zyl. “If South Africa is serious about growth and development, the agricultural sector must not only be recognised, it must be protected and supported.”
TLU SA emphasises that policy certainty, rural safety, functional infrastructure and practical support for producers are essential to unlock the sector’s potential even further.
TLU SA would therefore like to use this opportunity to recognise every farmer in South Africa, from small family farms to large commercial producers, who continue day after day to produce food and create economic value.
“Behind every statistic is a farmer, a family and a community,” says Van Zyl. “These are people who often work under difficult and uncertain circumstances, yet they persevere. South Africa’s economy and food security rest largely on their shoulders.”
“We must realise this: without farmers there is no food, stability or growth,” Van Zyl concludes. “These figures prove it beyond doubt.”
