With favourable rainfall and improved control of animal diseases, the sector is on a recovery trajectory.

According to Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo, primary agricultural employment fell by 1% compared to the third quarter. By the end of 2024, the sector employed approximately 924,000 people. 

The biggest job losses occurred in the field crops, game and hunting, and forestry subsectors. 

South African farmers continue to create more jobs, even in drought years. pic.twitter.com/A4NSGeVNGq

— Wandile Sihlobo (@WandileSihlobo) February 18, 2025

Despite the quarterly decline, employment remained largely unchanged from the same period in 2023 and remains well above the long-term average of 799,000 jobs.

“Given the resilience seen in recent quarters, we may see employment conditions improve in 2025, provided there are no major trade-related disruptions,” Sihlobo stated. 

However, he cautioned that uncertainties surrounding South Africa’s participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act and broader geopolitical tensions could impact the sector’s profitability and job sustainability.

Threats to long-term growth

Provincially, the Eastern Cape, Free State, and Limpopo recorded job losses, while other provinces saw slight employment gains.

Despite an expected recovery in production, the agricultural sector continues to face significant structural risks. Challenges such as port inefficiencies, poor rail and road infrastructure, crime, stock theft, and deteriorating municipal service delivery pose threats to long-term growth. 

Additionally, the mild increase in the minimum wage in 2025 may add to cost pressures for some commodities, though it is not expected to be a major obstacle to overall employment levels.

OFM Agri mvh