Farming: more than just crops and tractors

Agriculture may not make up the largest portion of the gross domestic product (GDP), but its importance extends far beyond that. It feeds the country, generates valuable foreign currency, and provides many jobs, especially in rural communities where employment is often scarce.

At this year’s NAMPO Harvest Day in the Free State, John Steenhuisen, Minister of Agriculture, emphasised the need to develop the entire agricultural value chain. He emphasised the importance of encouraging young people to enter the sector by providing training not only in farming but also in related areas such as processing, marketing, and logistics. There are significant opportunities throughout the agricultural sector, from production right through to distribution.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty-free access to U.S. markets for eligible sub-Saharan African countries, is set to expire in September 2025. Although South Africa has secured its AGOA benefits for this year, the future of the agreement remains uncertain. Tensions rose in May 2025 when former U.S. President Donald Trump confronted President Cyril Ramaphosa at the White House, raising concerns about South Africa’s land reform policies and alleging violence against white farmers, claims firmly denied by South African leaders.

While no formal action has yet been taken to withdraw South Africa’s AGOA benefits, the Trump administration has expressed doubts about South Africa’s compliance with AGOA’s eligibility criteria, particularly regarding land reform. In response, South Africa has submitted a revised trade and investment proposal aimed at strengthening economic ties and addressing these concerns.

South Africa is also looking to deepen trade ties by proposing purchases of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) and requesting duty-free quotas for car and metal exports. This approach aims to strengthen the relationship as South Africa prepares for a post-AGOA world.

Meanwhile, South Africa is expanding into new markets in Asia. Countries like China, Taiwan, and the Philippines are becoming important buyers of South African products such as macadamia nuts, apples, citrus fruits, and wine. These markets could help reduce South Africa’s reliance on traditional Western customers.

Technology is also changing farming. Agri-tech firms like Aerobotics use drones and artificial intelligence to monitor crops, helping farmers improve yields and reduce waste. Others add value by turning raw produce into high-end products, such as nut butters, dried fruits, and fruit concentrates, aimed at export markets.

Manufacturing: Waking up a sleeping giant

Manufacturing in South Africa has faced tough times recently, with rising energy costs, frequent power outages, and global competition. But the sector is still alive, and new opportunities are emerging.

The green economy is one area indicating growth. As demand rises for solar panels, batteries, and water-saving devices, local manufacturers are stepping up. Cape Town-based Rubicon Group, for example, supplies electric vehicle chargers and solar equipment to homes and businesses.

Textiles and clothing are also making a quiet comeback. Thanks to support from local retailers and government procurement, small factories in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape are reopening, producing “Proudly South African” fashion lines that create jobs and boost local pride.

On a larger scale, investments in industrial parks and transport corridors are creating the right environment for bigger manufacturing businesses. It’s no longer just about producing goods — it’s about building networks that support jobs, skills development, and long-term growth.

Services: Fast, flexible and full of promise

Alongside traditional sectors, the services industry, particularly technology, education, and healthcare, is rapidly gaining attention.

Cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town have become hubs for tech startups. Companies such as Yoco, which offers mobile payment solutions for small businesses, and SweepSouth, an on-demand home cleaning service expanding across Africa, are addressing local challenges with innovative and scalable ideas. This has not gone unnoticed by investors.

Education is also evolving. Online platforms like GetSmarter, which partners with leading universities to provide short courses, are growing quickly. With youth unemployment remaining above 40%, flexible, skills-based learning is meeting a vital social need while opening up new business opportunities.

Meanwhile, healthcare is being reshaped by telemedicine and mobile clinics, which deliver essential services to rural and underserved communities. These initiatives are attracting both donor funding and private investment, bringing hope for improved access to healthcare across the country.