Soya bean production ranks among the most popular grain crops in South Africa and when it comes to planted area and yield, soya bean offers both economic opportunities and essential nutritional resources. Over the years, the cultivation of soya bean has gained traction across various regions of the country, driven by its versatility, profitability, and the growing demand for plant-based protein sources.
OVERVIEW OF SOYA BEAN AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN SA
Africa’s soya bean production is increasing fast – at a pace of about 7% annually – and is primarily due to an increase in the crop’s cultivated area rather than yield. Over 35% of the continent’s soya bean production is accounted for by South Africa, the top producer in Africa. Although all nine provinces in South Africa grow soya bean due to the commodity’s high socioeconomic importance and many commercially available cultivars that are climate-adapted, the majority of the crop is produced in the Free State, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. In 2023, the total area planted was 1 148 300ha, which delivered a harvest of 2 755 300t, the highest yield experienced over the past five seasons. Although plantings have decreased to 1 036 600ha for the 2024 season (-9,7%), a harvest of about 2 170 000t is still expected and it remains well above the five-year average harvest, ensuring that South Africa remains a net exporter of soya bean (data from the Crop Estimate Committee).
FAST FACTS
South Africa is the top soya bean producer in Africa, contributing to 35% of the total production.
Denne historien er fra 5+12 April 2024-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra 5+12 April 2024-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.
