Maize harvest may double in size this season
Farmers are expected to reap a record 14.73 million tons of maize this season, with current harvests indicating robust yields because of good rains, a Reuters poll of five traders and market analysts showed yesterday.
The government’s crop estimates committee, which will provide its fourth production forecast for this year’s crop on Friday, is seen pegging the harvest at 14.73 million tons, up 89% from the 7.78 million tons realised last year, when an El Nino-triggered drought hit yields and plantings.
“Harvesting is under way in many areas of South Africa, with yields reportedly well above average, which confirms that we are in for a big crop this season,” said Wandile Sihlobo, an economist at the agricultural business chamber.
The market expectations are higher than the record crop of 1981, when 14.656 million tons were reaped.
This year’s summer harvest is expected to consist of 8.747 million tons of white maize, the regional staple, and 5.980 million tons of the yellow variety, used mostly for animal feed.
Improved weather conditions since last season’s drought have pushed down maize and overall food prices and helped improve the inflation outlook.
The white maize contract ending in July ticked up 0.21% to R1813.80 by 9.20am, far off the record peaks of more than R5 000 that were reached 16 months ago.
Harvesting is under way in many areas of South Africa.