South African farmers expand summer crop plantings amid favourable rains

South African farmers have expanded the area planted with key summer crops for the 2025/26 season, according to preliminary data from the Crop Estimates Committee (CEC). Maize, soybean and sunflower seed plantings are all up, reflecting strong confidence among producers and aligning with earlier planting intentions reported across the industry.

Preliminary CEC figures indicate maize plantings cover 2.674 million hectares, a 2.98 per cent rise. White maize accounts for 1.644 million hectares, up 2.78 per cent, while yellow maize totals 1.030 million hectares, a 3.31 per cent increase. Soybeans are projected at 1.185 million hectares, up 2.95 per cent, and sunflower seed area is expected to reach 560,800 hectares, a 0.92 per cent increase.

According to African News Agency (ANA), a partner of TV BRICS, the overall area for summer grains and oilseeds has grown to 4.54 million hectares, a 2 per cent rise from the previous season.

“The preliminary data confirm that farmers have followed through on their planting intentions,” said Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the national agricultural sector. 

Regional gains are notable, with the Free State, North West and Limpopo provinces contributing significantly to the increase in maize and sunflower seed plantings. Expanded areas, combined with favourable rainfall, point to strong prospects for crop growth and potential abundance in the 2025/26 season.