South africa: South Africa's agricultural sector has surpassed the R1.155 billion mark in statutory levy collections, reinforcing the sector's ability to invest in food security, farmer support, transformation, and global competitiveness.
According to South African Government News Agency, National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) 2025 Status of Statutory Measures Report, levy income increased from R1.149 billion in 2024 to R1.155 billion in 2025, marking sustained growth above the R1 billion benchmark first achieved in the 2023/24 financial year.
Reinvestment drives sector growth
Levy funds continue to be channelled back into the sector, with total expenditure reaching R1.21 billion in 2025, reflecting strong industry confidence and the strategic use of accumulated reserves for priority programs. Research and innovation accounted for the largest share of spending at 46.7% (R564 million), followed by transformation initiatives at 19.7% (R237.5 million). Export promotion and market access received 13% (R157.1 million), while information and data systems accounted for 6.4% (R77.6 million). Administrative costs remained contained at 6% (R72.9 million), well below the recommended 10% guideline.
Focus on innovation and inclusive growth
NAMC noted that since surpassing the R1 billion mark in 2023/24, the sector has steadily strengthened its focus on innovation and climate-resilient farming systems, expanding access to export markets, empowering previously disadvantaged producers, and world-class agricultural data and information systems. In 2023/24 alone, the Council said, R1.022 billion was already invested back into industry functions, with research accounting for nearly half of all spending.
Transformation spending increased to R237.5 million in 2025, representing a 5% increase from the previous year. This aligns with the NAMC's guidelines that at least 20% of levy income supports transformation initiatives across most industries. 'With global markets becoming more competitive, the sector allocated R157 million to export promotion and market access. This supported South Africa's position as a reliable agricultural exporter, despite logistical and geopolitical challenges,' the Council said.
Why this matters for food security and jobs
The Council said statutory levies play a critical role in sustaining industries by funding critical research and innovation, maintaining national food security, building high-quality agricultural data systems, and supporting inclusive growth and rural employment. 'The success of the grains, oilseeds, citrus, deciduous fruit and wine industries demonstrates how coordinated levy investment can deliver long-term economic and social returns,' NAMC said.