Official statistics aside, there seems to be a wide gulf between farmers who are doing well and those who are not. What are successful farmers doing right?
Caring for farm workers, the environment and one’s finances are all key to farming sustainably. In future, however, these factors will be even more crucial.
The lower grain prices expected during 2013/2014 will be a boon for livestock producers hard hit by drought and high input costs.
The growing African market provides numerous opportunities for South African agriculture.
Farmers should use cost analyses carefully and should always avoid making decisions based solely on short-term data.
In spite of weaker global and local economic growth, several agricultural sectors have experienced higher returns and will continue to do so.
Producers should not be led astray by good crop yields and higher prices for grains.
The devaluation of the currency will increase your income as well as your costs.
Agriculture is no longer merely a supplier of food, fuel and fibre – it plays a huge multifunctional role. Our government, however, doesn’t realise this.
Maize producers and maize users will have to watch the markets carefully in coming months.
Efficiency measures are necessary right now, but all decisions should be taken on a ‘total farm’ basis.
Only those who constantly strive to improve the efficiency of their farms will survive.
