Johannesburg, South Africa — A record grain harvest in South Africa has contributed to a slowdown in food inflation, which decreased to 1. 4% in June, down from 1. 6% the previous month.
The favorable La Niña rains and efficient planting have led to a bumper crop, with the 2025-26 summer grain and oilseed harvest reaching an estimated 21. 5 million tons, a 5% increase from the previous year. Economist Wandile Sihlobo explains that the abundant grain supplies, including maize, soybean, and sunflower, have played a significant role in the deflation of grain-related food products, vegetables, and fruits. “.
We see a broad deceleration across a range of products that are in the food basket, and in fact, some products are actually in deflation, “he. While the current situation is positive, concerns remain about the potential impact of the expected El Niño weather phenomenon on future harvests. Agricultural economist Gurswin Prins warns that the likely impact of El Niño on South Africa’s agriculture and food prices in 2027 remains a concern.
Despite these challenges, the current harvest has provided some relief for consumers, offering respite for families across the country.
The Crop Estimates Committee’s data indicates that the abundant grain harvest has also contributed to a surplus in grain stocks, which could help stabilize prices in the long term.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Zandile.Khumalo
