An R80 million government programme aims to help emerging grain farmers grow their businesses as farmers in other parts of South Africa report mixed harvest results.
The initiative highlights traditional crops while supporting farmers with skills and research to improve food production under dry conditions.
The survey aims to give the government fresh data to guide investments, improve irrigation, and increase local rice production.
The new tariff aims to support local manufacturers, but consumers now face the risk of paying more for one of the country’s most affordable sources of protein.
Government says the move will support local processors while keeping controls on export volumes.