A recent analysis by agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo highlights growing risks to South Africa’s agricultural sector due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. While the country entered 2026 with optimism about improved harvests and easing food prices, rising fuel and fertiliser costs—driven by global instability—now threaten both food inflation and export performance, especially to key markets in the Middle East. 

Guest: Wandile Sihlobo: Presidential Envoy on Agriculture and Land Reform, The Presidency & Chief economist, Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz)