The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) notes with great concern the state of drought in South Africa and the effects it has on the farmers, jobs in the sector and the ripple effect this will have on the South African economy.

The continued low rainfall is resulting in devastating conditions for farmers, with drought being reported in most provinces of South Africa. 

The most serious impact, other than low rainfall and high temperatures, is the effect drought has on crops. This will put pressure on prices and likely to affect consumers noting that maize is a staple for most South African households.

SACCI welcomes the commitment by government to working with business in ensuring better and impactful relief and recovery from the drought situation in South Africa.

The announcement by the Agriculture Department of requesting the National Treasury for more funds to assist the farmers to deal with the current drought disaster will come as a relief. The majority of farmers are relying on getting production loans for the next season, this request by Agriculture Department will come as a welcome relief.

SACCI encourages the government to continue pursuing economically viable arrangements that will allow importation of maize into the country.

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