South Africa’s agricultural sector is experiencing robust growth, driven by the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP). According to the latest government report, production volumes increased from 11% (2015–2019) to 13% (2019–2023), with notable gains across key commodities:

• Maize: 34% → 65%
• Soya beans: 72% → 80%
• Wheat: 17% → 53%
• Deciduous fruits: 17% → 49%
• Viticulture: 25% → 62%
• Tomatoes: 8% → 94%

Minister John Steenhuisen, speaking at the AAMP Executive Oversight Committee Meeting in Stellenbosch, emphasized the plan’s alignment with the National Development Plan and its focus on inclusivity and transformation. He called for continued collaboration among government, business, labour, and civil society through Value Chain Round Tables (VCRTs) and production schemes.

“A good plan properly executed today is better than a perfect plan executed next week.” — George S. Patton, quoted by Steenhuisen

The minister urged stakeholders to maintain unity and pursue an additional 12–15% growth in the coming years, reinforcing agriculture’s role in economic development and food security.