Market Trends of South Africa Seed Industry
Need for Meeting the Nutritional Security
The growing health consciousness among South African consumers has resulted in consumers spending more on healthier foods such as vegetables. The agencies like The New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) Agency, along with various international, local, and government associations, are supporting the South Africa nutritional security programs. This is thus driving the production of fruits and vegetables in the country. For instance, according to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), in 2016 the vegetable production was 2580.98 thousand metric tons that have increased to 2694.29 thousand metric tons in 2017. Also, fruit production in the country increased from 6565.22 thousand metric tons to 6893.87 thousand metric tons during the same period. Thus the rising production will create demand for quality seeds to increase the productivity to meet the consumption demand.
Demand for Quality Seeds
The increase in the population level of the country has fueled the demand for higher productivity. With the growing population and shrinking plots of cultivable land, the demand for quality seeds is increasing. COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa) reports that just 23% of the smallholders have access to certified seeds, which indicates huge scope for the quality seeds.
According to ISF the South Africa seeds export valued USD 120 million in 2017 against USD 110 million in 2016, which indicates the growing seed market. Crop yields in Africa are the lowest in the world, due to limited access to quality inputs especially improved seed varieties suitable for the different climatic conditions and soils.
According to FAO, in 2016 yield of cereals was 38,176 hg/ha which increased significantly to 56440 hg/ha in 2017 and shown a decline in yield which was 49335hg/ha in 2018. This fluctuation in yield can be overcome by using quality seeds that ensure good germination and protection against adverse conditions. This indicates the growth of the market for seeds in the country.
