Agricultural exports at impressive levels for Q2 - economist
An agriculture economist says the sector's export performances soared to impressive levels in the second quarter of 2021 despite ongoing Covid-19 challenges across the globe.
Paul Makube says the weather also came to the party and allowed for an excellent produce season, which saw records in crops like grain, oilseed crops, fruits and nuts.
Despite logistical challenges, the sector managed to export hefty quantities recording a trade surplus of 40% higher than the same period last year.
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"Citrus made a good impression. We saw volumes up 1.6 percent year-on-year with other commodities that were exported included meat in the meat category, which also boasted strong grains with volumes up 60% quarter-on-quarter.
"The overall good export revenue was underpinned by a strong export demand, despite the second quarter 2021 rand exchange rate depreciating by 6% and 21% relative to the second quarter of 2020."
