Importance of agriculture on South African economy

Agriculture is of great importance to South Africa. It produces a significant proportion of exports and contributes greatly to the country's economy, especially as an employer, although land and water resources are generally poor. Arable land accounts for just over one-tenth of the country's surface area, with well-watered fertile soils found mainly in the river valleys of the Western Cape and on the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. The Highveld of Mpumalanga and the Free State have historically offered adequate conditions for extensive cereal production through substantial government distribution services and subsidies to white farm owners. Some arid areas, such as the Fish River Valley in the Eastern Cape Province, have become productive through the use of irrigation. Further irrigation has been provided by the current Orange River Project, which, upon completion, should add approximately three-tenths to the total land in production.

Major crops include maize (maize), wheat, sugarcane, sorghum, peanuts (peanuts), citrus and other fruits, and tobacco. Sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs are raised for food and other products; wool and meat are important (beef, lamb, lamb, and goat). Dairy products (including butter and cheese) and egg production are also significant, especially in large urban centers.

Forest resources are minimal, but a small amount of forest land has been supplemented by significant plantations in the more humid areas in the east and southeast. The timber industry supplies mining timber, pulpwood for paper and cardboard mills, and construction timber, mostly sufficient for the construction industry, which mainly uses brick, concrete, and steel. Fishing areas lie mainly along the western and southern coasts. The main catches when fishing in shallow waters are Sardis and maasbanker, while sea trawling brings kingklip, Agulhas sole, Cape Heck, and labels, among others.