Rising fuel costs are sending shockwaves through the agricultural sector.

Farmers are concerned that the surge in diesel prices will cripple farming.

Jumbo van der Merwe, a local small-scale farmer, highlighted the tightening margins.

While the current price of maize stands at R3 000 per ton, the math behind the harvest is becoming harder to justify.

“Last year, planting five hectares of maize cost me R14 000,” Van der Merwe explained. “At the current market price, I’m looking at a return of only R15 000 per hectare. This whole situation is spiraling out of control.”

He said meat prices are set to increase as well.

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The National African Farmers Union (NAFU) backed Van der Merwe’s concern.

“Diesel is a critical input in the agricultural sector, powering our tractors, irrigation systems, and transportation of produce from farms to markets. The surge in diesel prices has directly increased the overall cost of farm inputs, making it increasingly difficult for farmers – especially small-scale and emerging producers,” said NAFU president in Mpumalanga, Jabu Mahlangu.

He added that the higher input costs are inevitably passed on to consumers in the form of increased prices for basic food items.

This not only threatens the sustainability of farming enterprises but also exacerbates food insecurity and inflationary pressures for ordinary South Africans.

“The situation risks undermining the progress we have made towards a more equitable and resilient agricultural sector,” Mahlangu further reacted.

To mitigate this crisis, NAFU proposes several measures.

“First, we urge the government to consider temporary fuel levy relief or rebates specifically targeted at the agricultural sector. Second, we recommend the establishment of a fuel stabilisation fund to cushion farmers against future price shocks. Third, increased investment in alternative energy sources for farming operations – such as solar and biofuels – should be prioritized to reduce dependence on diesel in the long term,” Mahlangu recommended.

He said they call on the government to urgently engage with stakeholders in the agricultural industry to develop a comprehensive support package.

This should include reviewing the current fuel pricing structure, streamlining access to fuel subsidies for smallholder farmers, and promoting research and development into sustainable energy alternatives.

“By working together, we can safeguard food security, protect livelihoods, and ensure the continued growth of our nation’s agricultural sector.”

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