Production is expected to begin in early 2026. This expansion is crucial for the agriculture sector, where sturdy, high-capacity pipes are vital for delivering water efficiently across vast farms and commercial estates.
Roland Andrag, Agrico’s technical director, explained the need for larger diameter pipe solutions.
“Our strong investments in quality control have brought strong demand. Having added a 630mm pipe to our product range in 2025, and seeing the market’s reaction, we believe that there is a place in the Southern African market for 710mm and 800mm mPVC and uPVC pipes,” he said.
Agrico’s new production line will manufacture pipes in diameters ranging from 400mm to 800mm, relieving pressure on smaller lines and enhancing overall capacity.
Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Agrico factory manager Rynhardt Nelson said in South Africa, 710mm mPVC/uPVC pipes were widely used for large-scale irrigation schemes, serving as transmission mains from dams to field networks and supporting high-volume agricultural operations.
“With farms becoming inreasingly commercial, our bigger pipes will allow for greater pumping capactiy, enabling farmers to pump more during the day using solar, for example, than having to run 24/7,” Nelson said.
He said PVC provided economical value without compromising on quality or durability, and had several uses in farming and other industries, making it a preferred option.
“Larger 800mm pipes are integral in bulk water supply, stormwater drainage, and municipal irrigation systems, ensuring efficient distribution across rural and peri‑urban farmlands.
“PVC piping plays a pivotal role in agriculture as it is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, rustproof, chemically inert, and has smooth interior surfaces that reduce friction and pumping costs. Its durability makes it ideal for gravity-fed irrigation, potable water delivery to remote fields, and canal linings where flood prevention and water conservation are priorities,” Nelson said.
Agrico’s extrusion capacity will support both pressure-rated IsoFlo (uPVC) and IsoTuff (mPVC) pipe lines, with full SANS accreditation in place.
This upgrade will also free up existing smaller production lines, improving efficiency across the board. Agrico plans to expand into sewer and drain pipes once manufacturing capacity allows, further enhancing its comprehensive product portfolio.
“This investment strengthens Agrico’s position as the go-to provider of large‑diameter pressure pipes for agriculture, water infrastructure, and construction. Our immediate stock availability [of currently manufactured pipes] and enhanced production efficiency will enable farmers and municipal planners to easier access reliable and long-lasting piping solutions, securing water delivery for irrigation and sustaining agro-based economies,” Andrag said.
For more information visit:https://agrico.co.za/irrigation-components/pvc-pipes/.
