While the start of South Africa's 2024-25 crop season was tricky, there remains optimism that farmers likely planted more area than the previous season.

The preliminary plantings data released by the Crop Estimates Committee this afternoon shows that South African farmers likely planted 4,45 million hectares of summer grains and oilseeds in the 2024-25 season, up mildly by 0,3% from the previous season.

Some of these plantings likely happen outside the typical optimal window because of some regions' unfavourable weather conditions at the start of the season. In such areas, there will be a need for better rains through to March, when the crops will likely pollinate.

Encouragingly, the La Niña prospects suggest we may receive favourable rains during this period. This supports the view that the 2024-25 season could be a recovery period for South Africa's agriculture. Listen to the podcast for more insights.

Richard Humphries and Sam Mkokeli produce this podcast. Wandile Sihlobo website