South Africa harvests record corn crop, strengthens position as a key African exporter

South Africa is completing the harvest of a record corn crop, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s leading corn exporters. According to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), the country’s MY 2025/26 corn production is estimated at 17.9 mln tons, the highest level on record.

For the 2026/27 marketing year, the corn planted area is forecast to remain stable at around 3 mln hectares, supported by improved seed genetics and advances in crop production technologies. Output is expected to ease to 16.3 mln tons due to less favorable weather conditions. Nevertheless, ample carryover stocks are expected to fully cover domestic demand while allowing South Africa to maintain a strong export position.

Corn growers are also facing rising production costs. FAS notes that tensions in the Middle East have pushed up domestic fuel and fertilizer prices, which together account for roughly half of total corn production costs. In addition, the possible development of El Niño could bring a drier summer season, increasing production risks.

Domestic corn consumption is projected to rise from 14.2 mln tons in 2025/26 to 14.6 mln tons in 2026/27, driven mainly by population growth to around 65 million people. As a result, corn exports are forecast to decline to 2.5 mln tons in 2026/27 from a record 3.5 mln tons in the previous season due to lower production and stronger domestic demand.

Vietnam has become the largest buyer of South African corn this season, accounting for more than 60% of exports, followed by Zimbabwe and South Korea. According to FAS, South Africa will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring food security across Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly for countries that rely heavily on grain imports.