SA agri economy shows robust growth in Q3, 2017 AgriOrbit

After registering a 38.7% quarter over quarter (q/q) (revised) growth rate in the second quarter of 2017, the agricultural GDP grew by 44.2% q/q in the third quarter. According to Agbiz, it is against their expectations of a moderate growth of around the mid 20% q/q, as they think the sector should start tracking its long-term growth levels. Nevertheless, this continued strong growth could be explained by good agricultural output during the 2016/2017 summer production season, which in turn boosted trade.

These growth figures mirror an increase in the overall agricultural activity, particularly the 2016/2017 production season of summer grains, oilseeds and fruits, as well as a recovery in the livestock industry. These have manifested into solid exports, thus sustaining the agricultural economy in the positive growth path.